Power unit: the invisible battle Ferrari seems destined to lose
Discussions are continuing behind the scenes at the FIA regarding potential changes to the 2027 Formula 1 power unit regulations. Unfortunately, the 2026 rules, as they currently stand, appear to have significant flaws. Engineers originally believed that through super-clipping, they would be able to recharge enough battery energy to compensate for the reduced horsepower output from the internal combustion engine. However, two major issues have emerged.
The first is that fans do not enjoy watching Formula 1 cars slow down on the straights simply to recharge their batteries. The second concern is safety, as this kind of energy management can create potentially dangerous on-track situations.
The 2027 idea has support, but not from everyone
Fortunately, a possible solution exists. The development of sustainable fuels is showing strong promise, so much so that Formula 1 began considering a significant step toward a more combustion-engine-focused power unit just a few weeks ago. At present, modern F1 cars derive their performance from an even 50/50 split between combustion and electric power.
Back in April, an initial proposal for 2027 suggested increasing the energy contribution from fuel, which is currently capped at 3000 MJ/h, while giving the internal combustion engine an additional 50 kW and reducing electric power by the same amount. That would effectively create a 60/40 balance in favour of the combustion engine.
On paper, the idea looks highly attractive, and many fans have responded positively. Yet once again, complications remain. Several manufacturers, including Ferrari, are not in agreement. The reasoning is straightforward: increasing combustion engine power would require a fresh redesign of the engine project, potentially undermining the development gains achieved throughout 2026.
There is another important question being raised. Ferrari, Audi and Honda are all asking what happens to ADUO under such circumstances. If manufacturers are being encouraged to push hard on development, what is the point if the engine concept is going to be altered again for 2027?
The FIA continues to discuss the matter with the manufacturers. Unfortunately for Ferrari, the signs are not particularly encouraging, based on what reportedly emerged from the Montreal paddock. Mercedes and Red Bull are said to be aligned with the FIA and supportive of the proposed shift. Cadillac, meanwhile, is in a different position. Since it has not yet introduced its own engine on track, it still has time to adjust its plans and may even welcome the prospect of designing a less electrically complex power unit.
Fans and drivers could become Ferrari’s biggest obstacle
What may work against Ferrari is the broader sentiment among Formula 1 followers, many of whom would prefer to see the sport powered by an engine concept more heavily centred around the combustion side. And it is not just the fans who think this way.
Ferrari, Honda and Audi would prefer stability, but the FIA appears determined to keep advancing the discussion step by step in an effort to turn these proposed changes into official regulations. Some observers believe the governing body could attempt a compromise by simply increasing the fuel energy flow allowance in 2027 without altering the overall power split between combustion and electric systems, which could satisfy multiple stakeholders.
Whatever the FIA ultimately decides, it may simply be a matter of time before changes arrive. Even several drivers would reportedly favour a more performance-focused combustion engine. Max Verstappen has already begun voicing his position. Believe it or not, if the FIA fails to shift the power balance toward the proposed 60/40 split, the four-time world champion could even consider walking away from Formula 1.
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