Full Breakdown
FIA Proposes 60-40 Power-Split for 2027, Shifting Emphasis Back to Internal Combustion
5/12/2026, 12:08:57 PM
Regulation Shift and Context
The FIA announced a proposal to raise ICE maximum output by 50 kW to 450 kW (603 bhp) and cut ERS limit by the same amount to 300 kW (402 bhp), moving the power split from the 50-50 split used in 2026 to a 60-40 split. The 2026 hybrid-heavy rules made electrical recovery a primary performance lever; drivers reported mixed reactions, and fans split on the strategic emphasis, prompting the FIA to reconsider the balance for 2027.
Manufacturer Impact Snapshot
Mercedes’ ICE leads the field; added fuel flow should meet the 450 kW target despite the 50 kW MGU-K cut. Red Bull-Ford’s V6 is 10–15 bhp below Mercedes, but the higher fuel allowance could close the gap. Ferrari’s small turbo limits top-end output, so a larger turbo is needed to use the ICE boost. Audi’s debut unit trails Ferrari and has slower starts, yet the 2027 ICE increase should reduce the deficit. Honda’s V6 lags by 50–60 bhp and runs its MGU-K below the 350 kW ceiling, making the new ICE ceiling a major development task.
Official Statements & Responses
The FIA confirmed a ~50 kW rise in ICE power and a ~50 kW cut in ERS deployment. Mercedes said the removal of ambient-temperature compression-ratio limits will have minimal impact. Honda emphasized the need for further development to meet the targets.
Criticism, Conflicts & Gaps
Analysts warn higher ICE duty cycles could raise reliability risks, and unknown energy density of sustainable fuels such as Petronas’ formulation may hinder manufacturers from achieving the 50 kW swing. Sources differ on 2026 power outputs: Mercedes reportedly exceeds the FIA’s 400 kW ICE estimate, while other teams lack precise data, and the effect of the upcoming compression-ratio temperature measurement remains debated.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The measures agreed in principle today for 2027 would see a nominal increase in Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) power by ~50kW with a fuel-flow increase and a nominal reduction of the Energy Recovery System (ERS) deployment power by ~50kW,” — FIA
- “The FIA has announced a proposal to scale back the use of hybrid energy ahead of the F1 2027 season and move the needle back towards internal combustion power.” — PlanetF1
- “Feedback from drivers has been mixed, with some appreciating the added strategic layer and others suggesting it dilutes the raw simplicity that has long defined Formula 1 at its best.” — PlanetF1
What’s Next
The proposal awaits approval from the Power Unit Advisory Committee and review by the Technical Advisory Commission. Teams may need to redesign cooling, fuel-tank and aerodynamic packages, with a decision expected before the 2027 season begins.
