F1 Approves Staged Power Unit Rebalancing for 2027 and 2028

Formula 1 has officially agreed to a series of power unit (PU) modifications for the 2027 and 2028 seasons. These changes aim to rebalance the ratio between internal combustion and electrical energy to resolve energy management flaws encountered since the 2026 regulations took effect.

Why it matters:

The initial 2026 power unit transition sought a specific energy split, but practical application revealed inefficiencies in energy flow and harvesting. By shifting the balance back toward the internal combustion engine (ICE), F1 intends to make qualifying sessions more aggressive and "flat-out," ensuring that the spectacle of racing isn't compromised by overly restrictive energy management.

The details:

• 2027 Shift: The PU ratio will move to 58/42 (ICE/MGUK), with the ICE output rising to 420kW and a 5% increase in fuel flow.
• 2028 Target: The ratio will further shift to 60/40, bringing ICE output to 450kW and increasing the fuel flow limit by 13% relative to current figures.
• Electrical Adjustments:
  • MGUK max output will drop from 350kW to 300kW in 2027 and remain static through 2028.
  • Maximum harvesting power will increase in stages: 375kW in 2027 and 400kW in 2028.
• Governance: The changes received the necessary supermajority vote from the F1 Commission after initial proposals were contested during earlier PUAC meetings.

What's next:

The proposed regulatory package now moves to the FIA World Motor Sport Council for formal ratification. The final decision is expected during their meeting in Macau on June 23, which will officially set the technical trajectory for the next two seasons.