"After more than a decade with the same power units-and the same few manufacturers-the sport wanted to attract some new blood. Drawing in more car companies, which have boards and shareholders to answer to, required acknowledging road relevance and some commitment to sustainability and decarbonization. Since OEMs are all about electrification, that meant a greater emphasis on the hybrid side of the power units."
"The engines are still 1.6 L V6s and turbocharged, but those turbochargers no longer contain the hybrid system known as the MGU-H. There's now a much more powerful MGU-K, the electric motor that lives between the V6 and the transmission, and a more powerful battery."
Formula 1 implements comprehensive technical regulations for 2026, featuring smaller and lighter cars with new aerodynamic configurations and more powerful hybrid systems. The sport attracts new manufacturers by emphasizing electrification and sustainability through audited sustainable fuels. The new 1.6L V6 turbocharged engines eliminate the MGU-H hybrid system while introducing a significantly more powerful MGU-K electric motor and enhanced battery. These changes aim to draw new car companies to the sport while maintaining road relevance and environmental responsibility. However, drivers report frustration with energy management systems, and at least one team faces challenges completing races under the new regulations.
#formula-1-2026-regulations #hybrid-power-systems #energy-management #sustainable-fuels #technical-reset
Read at Ars Technica
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