FIA Shifts Power Unit Balance Toward ICE for 2027 and 2028

The FIA and Formula 1 teams have officially agreed to modify power unit regulations starting in 2027. The decision follows a wave of complaints from drivers and fans regarding the 2026 power units, where a heavy reliance on battery energy has often outweighed raw driving talent and tactical racing during the current campaign.

Why it matters:

The current energy-heavy balance has introduced a frustrating "yo-yo" effect during wheel-to-wheel combat. Because overtakes often deplete a driver's battery instantly, the passing car is frequently re-passed immediately, regardless of the driver's skill. By shifting the power balance back toward the internal combustion engine (ICE), the FIA aims to restore consistent performance and ensure that driver bravery and race craft—rather than just energy management—determine the outcome of a battle.

By the numbers:

• ICE Power Surge: Maximum ICE power will increase from 400kW in 2026 to 420kW in 2027, eventually reaching 450kW by 2028.
• Fuel Flow Boost: To support the increased ICE output, fuel flow limits will increase by 5% in 2027 and a substantial 13% by 2028.
• Power Split Evolution: The ICE/MGUK distribution will move from 53/47 (2026) to 58/42 (2027), hitting a 60/40 split in 2028.
• MGUK Adjustments: Base MGUK power will be scaled back from 350kW to 300kW, though harvesting capabilities will increase to 400kW by 2028 to improve overall efficiency.

What's next:

This regulatory pivot forces power unit manufacturers to re-evaluate their long-term roadmaps. While the 2026 engines are already in use, the swing back toward combustion means that efficiency in fuel flow and raw thermal output will once again become the primary battleground for championship contenders heading into the latter half of the decade.