The proposed changes to Formula 1’s engine regulations have been agreed upon between the FIA and all Power Unit Manufacturers ahead of the 2027 season.
In the 2026 regulations, the cars moved towards a 50/50 split between internal combustion engines (ICE) and electric hybrid engines. However, early in the year, drivers began to voice complaints that this split forced more ‘lift and coasting’ and an unnatural driving style.
One of the solutions that was proposed early was shifting the balance to 60/40, in favour of the ICE. It should effectively reduce battery dependence and restore drivers’ ability to race aggressively. Increasing the ICE output by 50kW.
Max Verstappen was particularly vocal about his support for the changes, urging the teams to approve the decision so drivers could return to so-called proper racing rather than energy management.
However, while all teams seemed eager to make a change, Audi was one of the biggest sources of pushback. They argued that such a significant change so quickly would be expensive and time-consuming. Instead, they proposed a slower progress towards 60/40, with a small step in 2027 before fully committing in 2028.
Significant changes til 2028
In the end, that’s what the FIA and other PU manufacturers have agreed to. The FIA released a statement outlining changes that aim to shift the fuel energy flow and energy recovery system deployment, and increase flexibility in energy management.
The proposed schedule sees 2027 make a jump to 58/42 before finally reaching 60/40 in 2028. This corresponds to a slow increase in fuel flow, max power, overtake mode and harvesting power.
The latest amendments were agreed upon by the FIA, FOM, teams, OEMs and PUMs. The FIA is now expediting the formal approval process to give teams and PUMs enough time to begin to prepare for the changes.
The proposal will be formally submitted for approval on June 23rd in Macau.
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