The FIA has confirmed that Formula 1’s next-generation power unit will remove the MGU-H but increase electrical power output.
Formula 1, its governing body, and current and prospective power unit manufacturers have been attempting to get the framework in place for the next engine formula, currently scheduled to be introduced for 2026.
An update was provided following Wednesday’s meeting of the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council in Paris.
While a finalised set of regulations was not forthcoming several key objectives and four main pillars were outlined.
The current 1.6 lire V6 engine, which has been in use since 2014, will be retained, but the overly complex MGU-H will be removed.
The electrical power output will be increased to 350kW while a power unit cost cap will be introduced.
This was further outlined in the key objectives as the FIA relayed its desire for a “significant cost reduction” while “making it possible for newcomers to join the sport at a competitive level.”
Attracting a new manufacturer has been among Formula 1’s key wishes for its next set of regulations, with VW Group still evaluating a prospective entry with either one or both of its Porsche/Audi brands. There have previously been discussions about the concessions made to potential new entrants in order for existing manufacturers not to be compromised by regulations.
There is also a desire for Formula 1 to send “a powerful environmental message” with “100 per cent sustainable fuel, overall efficiency, and a shift of focus to electrical power.”
The final key objective was to “protect the show” in ensuring there is a “powerful and high-revving power unit” that helps drivers’ ability to race and avoids excessive differentiation.
A detailed document with full information on the defined 2026 power unit regulations is set to be developed in the coming weeks and submitted to the WMSC in early 2022.
What a bunch of nonsense. There is nothing wrong with the current formula except the way teams are handcuffed from actually improving due to idiotic budget caps and bans on testing (the real reason why no one new will enter F1, because they know they don’t stand a chance of winning). Without those, and the goofy token system (not to mention a bit of assistance from the FIA), Mercedes probably wouldn’t have a quarter of the victories they’ve had since 2014. Under the current system, it’s more or less illegal to make drastic improvements throughout any duration of regulations. In 2026, this is going to happen all over again and we will see one team (two if we are lucky) dominate until the regs are changed yet again. This could possibly happen next year, but I suspect the changes being made are not great enough to actually impact the current pecking order.
Formula 1 is a broken system that needs to be rebuilt from the ground-up. It’s never been in worse shape, especially with the new ownership. And it’s only going to get worse — just wait until it’s sold again…