F1 Agrees on Staged Engine Regulation Changes for 2027-2028

Formula 1 is set to implement a two-stage overhaul of its power unit regulations across 2027 and 2028. The move aims to reduce the reliance on electrical power, correcting the imbalances of the heavily criticized 2026 ruleset to ensure more aggressive qualifying laps and more efficient energy flow.

Why it matters:

The 2026 regulations introduced a theoretical 50/50 split between the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and the Energy Recovery System (ERS), but this sparked significant concerns among manufacturers regarding drivability and raw performance. By shifting the balance back toward the ICE, the FIA is attempting to restore the "flat-out" nature of qualifying while avoiding the astronomical costs and reliability risks associated with a total engine redesign.

The Details:

• Power Split Shift: The ICE/ERS balance will move from the current 53/47 split to 58/42 in 2027, and eventually 60/40 by 2028.
• ICE Power Boost: Maximum ICE output will rise from 400kW to 420kW in 2027, reaching 450kW by 2028.
• Fuel Flow Adjustments: To support the increase in power, fuel flow limits will be raised by 5% for 2027 and 13% for 2028.
• Energy Recovery Tuning: While the maximum overtake mode power remains at 350kW, the maximum harvesting power will increase from 350kW to 375kW in 2027 and 400kW in 2028.
• Manufacturer Consensus: The staged approach serves as a compromise. It protects Audi's recent massive investment in new hardware, while Mercedes, who pushed for a more drastic 50kW reduction in 2027, accepted the gradual transition to secure a broader agreement.

What's next:

The proposal now awaits formal ratification by the World Motorsport Council during their upcoming meeting in Macau on June 23. Once approved, the FIA will expedite the process to provide manufacturers with the clarity needed to adapt their power units without disrupting current development cycles.