Formula 1 has confirmed that it will not revert to V10 engines or naturally aspirated powertrains in the near future, with the F1 Commission reaffirming its commitment to the current power unit regulations set to take effect next season.
The regulations, approved by the FIA in 2022, have been in development for several years, with manufacturers already working on the new specifications. However, the FIA has left room for “minor refinements,” including measures to address concerns regarding battery deployment on long straights. Drivers, teams, and fans have expressed concerns that cars may run out of battery power before completing these sections of the track.
To mitigate this issue, the FIA is introducing a ‘turn down ramp rate’ system, which will gradually increase electric power after a corner rather than unleashing the full power instantly. This adjustment aims to ensure a more progressive speed increase along straights, preventing drivers from using all available energy too early.
Under the current regulations, electric energy will account for 50% of a car’s total power, equating to 350kW. However, a proposal to reduce this to 200kW is under discussion. This change could allow for more consistent electric output throughout a lap, with potential implementation on power-sensitive circuits like Jeddah, Monza, Baku, and Las Vegas, or possibly across all tracks.
The F1 Commission will discuss this proposal in a meeting on Thursday. However, some engine manufacturers have expressed skepticism about the proposed reduction, questioning whether a shift to just 35% electric power can truly be classified as a minor refinement. Some believe this change mirrors the turbo era when cars had much more power in qualifying than during races, suggesting a similar adjustment could be feasible.