F1 is set for another engine in 2027, and what is this about V8s?

The electric car can extract power from the V6 to recharge the battery (a process called super clipping), but any power that goes that way won’t drive the rear wheels, which can make a dangerous difference in handling, we’re told.

But sadly, these warnings were very accurate all clear at the Japanese Grand Prix in March. Refreshingly, there seems to be no defensiveness on the part of the FIA ​​or other stakeholders but a willingness to respond to complaints.

2027

The FIA, the teams, the electronic equipment manufacturers, and the F1 Management (which manages the commercial side) have agreed – although technically only in principle so far – that next year, the V6 will be more powerful by 50 kW (67 hp) and the electric motor will be able to use 50 kW less, comparing the power of 630 kW to 600 (450 kW) 300 kW (402 hp) from the generator engine. The increase in V6 power will be achieved by increasing the engine oil.

With so little electrical power to be used, the cars have to be very high over the entire distance. And if the powertrain needs more cutting, the V6’s extra output leaves plenty of power for the car to steer, reducing speed variations. Other changes are still being discussed. The amount that the electric car can harvest from the V6 can be increased to more than 350 kW, and the battery capacity can be increased from 4 MJ to 5 MJ.

There are tradeoffs, however. Without all of their gasoline peers getting 10 percent more power in their fuel lines over the next few months, high-powered V6s with more fuel may need larger tanks or shorter mileages. Large fuel tanks would be ideal; if the race is short, everyone from F1TV subscribers to team supporters may start to wonder where their 10 percent return is. But a larger fuel tank means a redesigned chassis that will also be bigger and heavier—a trend that the 2026 regulations managed to change.