P1racenews AI automatic summary:
RacingNews365 takes a look at all the important need-to-know facts around the power unit revolution that is coming for 2026.
In 2026, Formula 1 power units will undergo significant changes with an emphasis on capturing and deploying electrical energy. The aim is to increase the output of the MGU-K from 120kw to 350kw, giving drivers almost triple the amount of energy to use. The goal is also to further reduce fuel usage in races to around 70kg. The power units will still produce over 1,000 brake-horsepower. As part of F1’s push for net zero carbon status, the fuels used in the cars will become fully sustainable, utilizing non-food carbon sources.
In addition to the power unit changes, there will be an overhaul of the cars themselves. The wheelbase will be narrowed from 3.6m to 3.4m, and the track will be narrowed from 2m to 1.9m. The final car regulations will be revealed by the FIA in June, allowing teams 18 months to design their machines. Two new power unit suppliers have been signed up for 2026, with a potential third joining in 2028.
