The World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) has ratified major power unit changes for the 2027 and 2028 Formula 1 seasons.
F1’s latest era is already seven rounds in but the new power unit formula has raised many eyebrows in the paddock.
The current rule-set dictates a 50-50 split between the internal combustion engine (ICE) and the battery pack.
That said, drivers and fans alike haven’t been the biggest supporters of these changes. On track safety concerns, harvesting demands and super-clipping have all led the FIA to consider potential changes to the engine formula going forward.
And while a staggered move towards a more powerful ICE had been provisionally agreed upon by the stakeholders and the FIA, in June, the WSMC has finally given it the official green signal.
For 2027, the ICE capacity has been increased by 25 bhp whilst the battery pack will produce 67 bhp less – achieving a 58-42 split in favor of the combustion engine.
In 2028, this will be further refined to achieve a 60-40 split with the ICE capable of producing up to 600 bhp.
To accommodate these changes, the fuel flow rates will also be amended accordingly, with the sport looking to attain a 13% increase in the fuel flow rate by 2028.
“The FIA continues to oversee the evolution of the 2026 Regulations and work closely with all key stakeholders across the motorsport community,” said the FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
“As with every major regulatory change, the process does not end when the cars first take to the track. Continuous dialogue and collaboration are essential to ensuring that the regulations meet the needs of the sport, its drivers, and its fans.
“Together we are exploring the future direction of the championship and considering how the sport can balance innovation, sustainability, performance and fan appeal in the years ahead.”
Ben Sulayem has also hinted at a possible shift back to the V8 engines in the not so distant future for F1.
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