The 2026 Ferrari Formula 1 car is becoming increasingly complete. The Scuderia has now approved a crucial component that will play a decisive role in the performance of the 678 project. Here are all the details from Maranello.
Ferrari working non-stop on the 2026 F1 car
The Prancing Horse is working tirelessly on its 2026 machine, introducing major innovations not only in terms of the new power unit but also in the fields of suspension design and aerodynamics. Ferrari has now given the green light to a fundamental component that could heavily influence performance.
Back in April, the Italian team decided to shift its full focus onto the 2026 regulation changes. The new generation of Formula 1 cars has already shown progress worth three seconds compared to the first model tested in the wind tunnel. There is still significant development potential, and the new rules could completely shake up the competitive order.
Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur outlined the key figures behind project 678: Loic Serra, Diego Tondi, and Frank Sanchez. Sanchez recently took on the role of head of aerodynamic development and will work closely with Tondi, while Vasseur himself will have the final say on technical decisions. Now, a very important approval has emerged for the future Ferrari car.
A nearly complete car: new updates on chassis and suspensions
Since mid-June, Ferrari has been the only team with its 2026 car already running in the wind tunnel. The project is around 70% complete. At Maranello, aerodynamic development of the key components will continue until November. A base chassis and the suspension layout have already been defined, this time based directly on the guidance of Technical Director Loic Serra.
Under the aerodynamic leadership of Diego Tondi, the design of the front axle will see some notable changes. Serra is pushing forward with what is described as a revolution in suspension design, given their crucial role in ensuring the car’s balance and mechanical efficiency. According to the latest reports from AutoRacer.it, Ferrari has now officially approved the chassis of the single-seater.
The importance of the chassis and power unit integration
The chassis is one of the most essential components for the overall development of the car. Its integration with the all-new power unit will be a decisive factor for competitiveness. At the heart of the Ferrari 678 is the new six-cylinder turbo engine, which will feature advanced solutions and push the limits in terms of material usage. However, reliability will be a key concern.
By combining different materials, Ferrari aims to achieve higher resistance to mechanical stress and improved heat management. The Italian team is not only chasing raw performance but also striving for better thermal efficiency, allowing for much tighter bodywork openings. This approach should make it possible to design slimmer sidepods, supported by more compact radiator solutions.
Within Ferrari, there is awareness that Mercedes may have an advantage over the competition in this area. After the departure of Wolf Zimmermann, Enrico Gualtieri has taken full control of the engine department and will be responsible for ensuring that Ferrari’s new power unit matches the ambitious goals of project 678.
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