Among the goals set with the new regulations was cost containment, with the idea of curbing development and investments in less performance-critical areas. Initial proposals included classifying the gearbox as a standard component to be supplied by a single provider for all teams. This initiative did not gain traction, but a compromise was reached by deciding to freeze transmission updates for four years.
Development freeze
Starting from 2027, the second season after the new regulations come into effect, the gearbox structure will be frozen until the end of 2030. Specifically, it will not be possible to make modifications to transmission line components, selectors, actuators, and other auxiliary parts, except for the gears. In exceptional cases, it will be possible to request a waiver for updates to be introduced exclusively between seasons, primarily for reasons of reliability, cost, or difficulty in sourcing original materials.
Gearboxes are excluded from the development freeze. As currently allowed, gear ratios can be revised between seasons. However, except for 2026, the ratios declared at the start of the year must remain the same until the end of the championship. It will also still be possible to modify the external structure of the gearbox, to which suspension components are attached, provided that internal elements subject to the freeze are not altered.
Gearboxes
Despite the reduced power of the internal combustion engine and the tripled power of the electric component in the next power units, gearboxes with up to 8 gears will still be allowed in the next regulatory cycle. The minimum weight of 600 grams per gear wheel and the steel usage requirement remain. Additionally, a minimum total weight of 22 kg for the various transmission line components, including the gears, will be introduced.
Leave a Reply