The FIA has officially confirmed the framework that will govern Formula 1 power unit regulations for 2027, outlining the changes that will take effect next season as the championship gradually moves toward a 60-40 split between combustion and electric power by 2028. The latest package of measures means manufacturers will not be forced to redesign their V6 engines, gearboxes or chassis, as the new balance will stand at 58% combustion power and 42% electric power next year.
While the FIA has not yet officially announced how ADUO opportunities will be allocated to the manufacturers eligible for them, it has now defined the technical regulations for the 2027 power units. In the end, a compromise was reached compared to the FIA’s original proposal, which had aimed to introduce the full 60% combustion and 40% electric power distribution immediately.
Logic appears to have prevailed. As previously reported by Motorsport.com, the increase in fuel flow will be limited to just 5%, significantly lower than the 13% increase originally discussed. That larger increase has now been postponed until 2028, the year in which the power units will enter a development freeze.
As a result, combustion engine output will increase by 20 kW, rising from the current 400 kW to 420 kW, equivalent to approximately 563 horsepower. The higher target of 450 kW will instead be reached in 2028.
At the same time, a reduction in electric power has been approved. The MGU-K will drop immediately from the current 350 kW to 300 kW in 2027, with no further changes planned from 2028 onward. The Overtake Mode remains unchanged and will continue to provide 350 kW.
Energy recovery figures, however, will increase. Recharge capacity will rise from the current 350 kW to 375 kW in 2027 and then to 400 kW in 2028, reflecting Formula 1’s continued effort to improve the efficiency and performance of the hybrid systems.
Following lengthy negotiations, Formula 1 stakeholders have therefore agreed on a 58-42 power distribution for next season, before reaching the symbolic 60-40 ratio in 2028. Manufacturers such as Ferrari and Audi, which had expressed concerns about being forced to redesign engines, transmissions and chassis, received assurances that such interventions will not be necessary.
The limited increase in fuel flow is not expected to create reliability concerns for existing mechanical components, nor will it require larger fuel tanks, allowing teams to continue with their current hardware concepts.
The agreement represents a logical middle ground that avoids a division among power unit manufacturers while also allowing those eligible for ADUO support to continue with the development programs already planned. Now that a balance has been found between the engine suppliers, many expect the FIA to officially confirm which manufacturers will be allowed to begin work on updates to their V6 power units immediately.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem commented on the decision:
“Formula 1 has always evolved to meet new challenges and seize new opportunities. These proposed changes reflect the collaborative work taking place across the sport to ensure that the regulations continue to support exciting racing, technological innovation and long-term sustainability.”
“The FIA has a responsibility to protect the future of the Championship, and these refinements form part of that commitment. By working together, we will shape the future of our sport and continue to deliver excitement for fans around the world. I would like to thank the FIA staff, the teams, Formula One Group and the power unit manufacturers for their constructive approach.”
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