This is what's new about the F1 engine from 2026

F1 News

Major engine changes coming in 2026
6 June at 16:45
1
  • Tygo Bekkema

In 2026, Formula 1 regulations will once again be shaken up. A lot is about to change in the top class of motorsport. So too on the engine front. Here is an overview of the upcoming engine changes.

Starting with the most important change: the MGU-H has to leave the field. This component, which was used to convert heat from exhaust gases into electricity sat on the car since the beginning of the hybrid era, will no longer be part of the engine from 2026.

On the other hand, the MGU-K, the component that generates kinetic energy from braking, will have a greater share in providing power. The amount of energy generated under braking will most likely be doubled. The power output of the internal combustion engine will be scaled back. From 550-560 kilowatts, to around 400 kilowatts.

Leaders in the race generate less power

The so-called 'override mode' will allow a car in leading position to generate less power as it speeds up. A chasing car will have 0.5 extra megajoules of energy at its disposal.

All in all, then, quite a technical story. With the new regulations, the FIA hopes to encourage more overtaking on the track. The motorsport umbrella organisation has also been working on making Formula 1 more sustainable for some time. So, from the entry into force of the new regulations, the cars will run on petrol that is completely CO2 neutral.

This article was written in collaboration with Sophia Crothall.