Further rumours are emerging about the engine Ferrari are developing for the 2026 Formula 1 season. Here is the area that is believed to be the main strength on which the Maranello-based team are focusing their efforts.
The Scuderia is preparing for the major regulatory overhaul scheduled for 2026, a change in which the power unit will play a decisive role in overall performance. In recent days, additional information has surfaced regarding the work Ferrari have been carrying out on a specific section of the power unit.
As is well known, 2026 will mark the first time that power output will be split equally between the internal combustion engine and the electrical component. It appears that following the departure of Wolf Zimmermann, who has moved to Audi, Ferrari have returned to a different solution in terms of cylinder head materials. For months, rumours have circulated suggesting that Mercedes currently have the strongest engine. This has also been followed by controversy linked to a solution that could potentially be illegal, prompting the FIA to assess the situation. Ferrari, Audi and Honda are reportedly considering lodging an official protest.
The work carried out by Enrico Gualtieri and his team continues behind closed doors, with information remaining highly confidential and inaccessible to most observers. Cadillac already have access to an engine, as reported by AutoRacer.it. Now, however, further developments are emerging that point towards a positive scenario for the Italian team.
Ferrari’s hybrid system reportedly delivering strong results
According to reports from FUnoAnalisiTecnica, the hybrid section developed by Enrico Gualtieri and his engineers has been performing extremely well on the test bench. While it is impossible to quantify the gains that rivals may extract from regulatory grey areas, this would still represent encouraging news if the results are later confirmed on track.
The reports suggest that Ferrari have demonstrated excellent energy recovery capabilities through the MGU-K, fully meeting expectations in this area. The power unit of the Prancing Horse is aiming to become the most competitive element of the entire 2026 project. In addition, Ferrari have recruited a new specialist who will be present on the pit wall for Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, with the specific task of monitoring and managing ERS strategy.
Drivers will need to learn how to manage the battery extremely quickly. The Barcelona test will feature a Spec-A version of the 678, which is scheduled to be unveiled on 23 January, with the engine required to accumulate significant mileage. This will allow engineers to gather valuable data and understand how best to optimise not only performance, but also the reliability of the power unit.
Ferrari are not only chasing outright performance, but also improved thermal efficiency. This would allow the team to aggressively close up the bodywork openings. The Italian outfit are aiming to design very slim sidepods, made possible by more compact radiators, as part of an overall concept focused on efficiency and aerodynamic optimisation for the 2026 regulations.
Ferrari’s 2026 hopes therefore rest on the efficiency of their hybrid system and the technical leadership of Enrico Gualtieri. By focusing on superior energy recovery and a compact cooling package, Maranello is attempting to build a car that is as aerodynamically aggressive as it is powerful, potentially giving Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton the tools they need to challenge for the title in the new era.
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