Full Breakdown
Audi and Ferrari Challenge Proposed 2027 Power Unit Shift in Formula 1
6/5/2026, 9:12:41 PM
Proposed 60/40 Power Unit Split for 2027 Faces Manufacturer Pushback
The FIA’s Power Unit Advisory Committee (PUAC) is evaluating a proposal to shift the internal combustion-electric power split from the near-50/50 balance to a 60/40 ratio for 2027. The change would add roughly 50 kW of ICE output and cut an equal amount of electric power, requiring higher fuel-flow limits and larger tanks. Audi and Ferrari have objected, seeking a staggered rollout or clearer technical allowances.
Background & Context
The 2026 hybrid V6 introduced a 50/50 ICE-electric split with sustainable fuels. A BBC Sport poll of 26 000 fans gave 30 % support to a V8 or V6-turbo engine with hybrid capacity. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem links the 60/40 proposal to a possible V8 return. Team contracts end in 2030, letting the FIA set new rules for 2031.
Key Figures & Groups
Key participants are FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Audi CEO Gernot Dollner, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, and Ferrari.
Timeline
- Early May 2026 – FIA announces intent to move to a 60/40 split for 2027.
- 2027 season – Targeted start of the new power-unit ratio, pending approval.
Official Statements & Responses
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said V8s can meet sustainability goals and restore the sport’s sound. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said rules should be less OEM-dependent, noting hybrid formula’s attraction of GM, Ford, Audi and Honda.
Criticism & Opposition
Audi argues turbocharging is essential for efficiency and warns a rule shift could raise development costs and disrupt drivetrain program. Ferrari objects to the ADUO framework, seeking rights for electrical components while opposing ICE inclusion.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources disagree on the earliest V8 return: some cite 2030, while the FIA president suggests it may not occur before 2031 without grid support. Technical details for the 60/40 split, such as fuel-tank size, remain undefined.
Verbatim Quotes
- “V8s are lighter, simpler and more cost-effective, while sustainable fuels mean they can remain aligned with our environmental ambitions. Most importantly, they bring back the unique, visceral sound that fans around the world associate with Formula 1.” — Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President
- “Yes, why shouldn't we accept that? I mean, the Nuvolari has a V8 so we don't have problems with V8 engines,” — Gernot Dollner, Audi CEO
- “That's crystal clear from an Audi perspective.” — Gernot Dollner, Audi CEO
What’s Next
PUAC will vote on the 60/40 plan soon.
