F1 in 2026 won’t become Formula E, but it will move closer than ever. With the electric component rising to 50% of total power, the connection between the two categories has never been stronger. Several engineers in the paddock have started looking at Formula E to understand how to navigate this new technical era.
Phil Charles called in by F1 engineers for guidance
Phil Charles, now a key figure in the Penske Formula E project with a significant F1 background, confirmed that many engineers have reached out for his help. A former technical director at Toro Rosso and ex-track engineer at Renault, Charles serves as one of the strongest bridges between the two worlds.
“I’d be lying if I said they haven’t called me. When it comes to energy optimization, Formula 1 already has a hybrid system. It’s not entirely new for them, but the direction of the new rules makes energy management critical. There are many parallels with Formula E in how you handle energy. And yes, I’d be lying if I said none of my friends in Formula 1 have called me to say that what we do here is extremely relevant to them.”
F1 will not become a copy of Formula E
The differences between the two series will remain. Races shouldn’t be dictated by extreme energy conservation. Phil Charles also confirmed this:
“Formula 1’s hybrid system will prevent scenarios like that, but energy management will become far more critical, and this will make the races more exciting. There are several valid approaches. The systems are different: in F1 you combine electric and combustion in a unique way. But the approach to energy management becomes central. And that’s where the similarities will be visible.”
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