The International Automobile Federation (FIA) defined this Wednesday (10) that the change in the power division of Formula 1 engines will be made gradually, instead of a sudden change in 2027. The decision responds directly to drivers’ complaints about the 2026 regulations, which increased the role of the electrical part and generated problems with driving and energy management.
From 2027, the internal combustion engine (ICE) will account for 58% of total power, compared to 42% for the electric engine (MGU-K). In 2028, the division reaches 60% for combustion and 40% for electric. Today, in the debut season of new power units, the balance is around 53-47%.
Detailed technical changes
The power of the combustion engine, currently at 400 kW, will rise to around 420 kW in 2027 and reach 450 kW in 2028. The electrical component will fall from 350 kW to 300 kW. To compensate, the harvesting limit will progressively increase to 400 kW in 2028.
Another relevant change is the increase in fuel flow: 5% more in 2027 and 13% in 2028. In practice, this allows thermal engines to deliver more performance without depending so much on the battery. The “push to pass” button continues to deliver the same additional 350 kW.
Pilot revolt accelerated corrections
The 2026 regulation, which simplified power units and gave more weight to the electrical system, attracted new manufacturers such as Ford (returning after 22 years) and Audi. However, in the first races of the season, drivers reported a sudden drop in power when the battery empties, a greater need for energy management and a feeling of “artificiality” in the races.
Incidents such as Oliver Bearman’s crash at the Japanese GP and frequent complaints about qualifying reinforced the pressure. In response, the FIA had already implemented adjustments from the Miami GP onwards, but the package announced today goes deeper to restore a balance that favors the traditional engine more.
What changes in practice for teams, manufacturers and fans
The gradual transition gives teams and manufacturers time to adjust already advanced projects, avoiding high extra costs or delays. For drivers, the goal is to reduce excess battery management and make races and classifications more “natural”, with less interference from recovered energy.
The changes still need approval from the World Motor Sport Council, scheduled for June 23. Mercedes, Ferrari, Honda, Ford and Audi, who supply engines to the 11 teams, participated in the discussions.
Formula 1 seeks to balance the transition to sustainable fuels with maintaining the spectacle that attracts fans — something that the initial 2026 regulations put at risk in the first evaluations of the season.
