The 2026 Formula 1 engine regulations will see the implementation of a driver-operated boost system known as ‘override mode’.
Architects of the 2026 engine regulations had already revealed that the turbocharged 1.6-litre V6 internal combustion engine will see a reduction in power output from around 560kW down to 400kW (535bhp).
To compensate for this reduction, greater emphasis is to be placed on the battery element of the F1 power unit which will see a jump from 150kW to 350kW (470bhp) despite the removal of the MGU-H component.
In its latest draft of the 2026 engine regulations, the FIA has unveiled plans for a driver-operated KERS-style boost system to capitalise on the more prominent electrical aspects of the power unit.
Article 5.4.8 of the draft regulations lays out plans for the new ERS-K system which, under standard use, will see drivers reach top speeds of 345km/h (215mph).
A second stage, branded as an ‘override mode’ by the FIA, will enable drivers to access additional battery power to reach up to 355km/h (220.5mph).
The system is akin to IndyCar’s push-to-pass mechanism and somewhat of a return to F1’s early experimentation with hybrid power through KERS between 2009 and 2013.
Override mode will add an extra element of strategy to energy management, placing the driver in control of when to access the boost.
Drivers will be able to exploit the system for both offence and defence in wheel-to-wheel battle or simply to maximise car performance and improve lap times.
With the 2026 engine regulations placing greater emphasis on the electrical aspects of the power unit, overreliance on ‘override mode’ places a driver at risk of entering an energy deficit under normal deployment until they can recharge their battery sufficiently.
F1’s 2026 engine regulations are yet to be finalised but the move to increased electrification has seen Audi and Ford (through Red Bull Powertrains) sign up to join the four incumbent engine manufacturers.
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