Formula 1 Sets Two-Step Engine Ratio Shift for 2027 and 2028

Formula 1 agreed a two-step plan to change engine design after drivers said the near 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical power this year forced excessive energy management and reduced the challenge in qualifying. The plan changes the ratio to 58-42 in 2027 and 60-40 in 2028. Fuel-flow to the internal combustion engine will increase by 5% in 2027 and 13% in 2028.

Internal combustion engine power will rise from about 400kW (536bhp) in 2026 to 420kW (563bhp) in 2027 and 450kW (603bhp) in 2028. Electrical power will fall from 350kW (470bhp) in 2026 to 300kW (402bhp) from 2027 onward. Maximum power available in overtake mode stays at 350kW.

Maximum harvesting power of the electrical part will increase from 350kW in 2026 to 375kW in 2027 and 400kW in 2028. The FIA said the changes address energy management and fuel energy-flow characteristics and make qualifying more flat-out while not impacting the positive and exciting racing generated by the new regulations. Max Verstappen said he would quit F1 if changes were not made.

Fernando Alonso said fast corners have become the charging station for the car. All drivers agreed the issue needed to be addressed. Engine suppliers agreed to the 60-40 ratio change by 2028. Ferrari and Audi led a push to prevent the move to 60-40 being made in one step for 2027.

A first step to address criticisms was made after the opening three races by reducing the maximum amount of energy that could be recovered on a lap and increasing the power of recovery when on full throttle. All drivers agreed the first step was a welcome change but only a small step in the right direction. The FIA informed power-unit manufacturers of the ranking of engine performance.

Only the power of the internal combustion engine is measured in the performance ranking. Red Bull has the most powerful engine according to the ranking. Mercedes have been awarded one permissible upgrade this season and another next.