How Formula 1’s 2028 engine regulations could make cars over four seconds per lap quicker. Why Formula 1's 2028 power units could transform performance on every circuit.

FIA engine rule overhaul could create the fastest Formula 1 cars ever seen

The FIA has officially confirmed further revisions to Formula 1’s future power unit regulations, introducing significant changes that will take effect across the 2027 and 2028 seasons. The objective is clear: reduce the excessive dependence on electrical deployment, improve racing quality and restore a more natural driving experience for Formula 1 drivers.

The updated regulations alter the balance between internal combustion engine output and electrical power. While the 2026 regulations were originally designed around a near-equal split of 52% thermal power and 48% electrical energy, that ratio will now evolve to 56/44 in 2027 before reaching 60/40 from the 2028 Formula 1 season onwards.

The FIA’s decision follows widespread concerns from teams, drivers and engineers over the behaviour of the next-generation power units. Simulations suggested that the original concept would force drivers into excessive energy-saving techniques, including prolonged lift-and-coast phases and aggressive battery management, reducing the intensity of wheel-to-wheel racing and making the cars feel less natural to drive.

Simulation data predicts massive gains in Formula 1 performance

New simulation data published by The Race paints a remarkably optimistic picture of Formula 1’s future. Once the revised power unit regulations are combined with the expected aerodynamic evolution, chassis improvements and ongoing development from manufacturers, the performance leap appears to be enormous.

The study evaluated three very different circuits currently on the Formula 1 calendar, representing low, medium and high energy-demand layouts. Across every scenario, the projected lap times show improvements of well over three seconds compared to today’s machinery, while certain tracks could see gains exceeding four seconds per lap.

The findings suggest that the revised engine philosophy not only improves efficiency but also allows teams to unlock considerably higher overall performance without relying on artificial energy management throughout a lap.

Shanghai could become the benchmark for Formula 1 speed

Among the circuits analysed, the Shanghai International Circuit delivered perhaps the most striking results. Current projections indicate that a qualifying lap, which today stands around 1:32.064, would fall to approximately 1:30.9 under the revised 2026 specifications before dropping dramatically to roughly 1:27.0 with the full 2028 regulations in place.

If these simulations accurately reflect future development, Formula 1 could establish some of the fastest lap times ever recorded at the Chinese Grand Prix, demonstrating the enormous potential unlocked by the revised power unit balance.

Barcelona also reveals significant gains. While the simulated 2026 configuration produces a qualifying lap very similar to today’s benchmark—around 1:14.8 compared to the current 1:14.679—the 2028 specification dramatically lowers that figure to approximately 1:11.8, highlighting just how much performance teams are expected to extract over the coming development cycle.

Less energy management and stronger acceleration

One of the most important improvements concerns the elimination of the so-called “super clipping” phenomenon, where drivers lose electrical assistance before the end of long straights, resulting in reduced acceleration and compromised overtaking opportunities.

According to the simulation data, the revised regulations largely solve this problem. The only notable exception could remain the famous 130R section at Suzuka, where energy deployment may still require careful management because of the circuit’s unique characteristics.

The projections also indicate that the next generation of Formula 1 cars will carry higher terminal speeds while maintaining stronger acceleration over much longer distances. This should make the cars both faster and more consistent throughout a qualifying lap, particularly on circuits featuring extended full-throttle sections.

Albert Park weakness appears to have been addressed

The Australian Grand Prix provides another example of the progress expected under the revised regulations. Earlier simulations of the original 2026 package exposed noticeable performance limitations through the high-speed section leading into Turn 9 at Albert Park, where electrical deployment became a limiting factor.

With the updated 2028 engine configuration, those shortcomings appear to have been largely eliminated. The revised power distribution allows the cars to continue accelerating more effectively through this section, illustrating how the FIA’s adjustments could significantly improve both drivability and outright performance.

While these figures remain based on advanced simulations rather than real-world testing, they offer an encouraging glimpse into Formula 1’s future. If manufacturers achieve the projected levels of development, fans could witness a new generation of Grand Prix cars that are not only considerably quicker than today’s machines but also far more enjoyable to watch as drivers spend less time managing energy and more time pushing flat out.