P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The engine regulations for Formula 1 in 2026 have already been determined. But what will happen to the next generation of engines?
According to the FIA, the future direction of F1’s power unit technology will be determined by its relevance to road cars. The current power unit specifications have been in place since 2014, but new regulations for 2026 will modify these units by removing the MGU-H and placing more emphasis on electrical power. This change has attracted manufacturers like Audi, Honda, and Cadillac. However, the exact path after 2026 is still being discussed, with options such as sustainable fuels, hydrogen, or greater electrification being considered. The main objective is to stay connected to what engine manufacturers want to do in the road car industry. F1 and the FIA have ambitious environmental sustainability targets, aiming to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by the end of the decade. However, since emissions from race cars contribute only a small percentage to the sport’s total carbon footprint, the FIA acknowledges the need to address other areas such as logistics, materials, and calendars to tackle the remaining 98%.
