13 hours ago
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A controversial 50:50 split between petrol and electric power in Formula One cars will be altered next year after criticism of the new generation of hybrid cars introduced this year.
Changes to Formula One cars' hybrid power units will be fast-tracked to 2027 to address new rules introduced this year that four-time champion Max Verstappen has called "anti-racing" and the electric Formula E series "on steroids".
The 50:50 power split between the 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 and electric motor will be changed to a figure closer to 60:40.
It is attributed to an increase in V6 power by about 50kW – up from about 350kW today, depending on engine supply – through a higher permitted fuel flow level, as well as a decrease in the electric motor's output, from 350kW to 300kW.
The changes are aimed to reduce the reliance on the battery in high-speed sections of the F1 calendar's circuits, which, in 2026, has seen cars frequently run out of electrical power towards the end of long straights.
The Race reports it is also hoped to reduce the amount of energy recuperation required, after a series of high-profile crashes involving multiple cars with a mix of battery charge levels.
A meeting between teams, engine manufacturers, F1, and its governing body, the FIA, agreed that the modifications would be fast-tracked to 2027, rather than 2028 as first planned.
The FIA is also evaluating the impact of changes made for the Miami Grand Prix to the amount of electrical power that can be deployed, and how often.
"It was agreed that further detailed discussion in technical groups comprising teams and power unit manufacturers was required before the final package was decided," the FIA is quoted as saying.
Final approval will need to be given on the changes to the energy split by the F1 Commission, the Power Unit Advisory Committee and the FIA's World Motor Sport Council.
