After the Miami Grand Prix, the FIA announced that, ‘in principle,’ an agreement had been reached with the engine manufacturers to change the power balance in the engines from 50/50 to 60/40. By slightly reducing the share of the battery, drivers should no longer have to back off during a lap to recharge the electric component.
Two objections among the competition
The other manufacturers reportedly do not support the change, mainly due to two key objections. First, budget constraints play a major role. Audi finds it difficult to justify investing millions once again in a new power unit, having only just done so for its entry into Formula 1. It is also suggested that modifying the engines would cost around ten million dollars.
In addition, the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) programme is a stumbling block for some manufacturers. This system allows those that are significantly behind to introduce upgrades to their engines during the season. However, if a higher fuel flow is also permitted in 2027, ADUO would have to be scrapped. Manufacturers fear that rivals able to use ADUO would gain a significant advantage in developing the new engines. Ferrari, in particular, sees this as a reason not to agree to the adjustment now and would prefer to wait a year.
Shintaro Orihara – Photo: RacePictures
Honda is also said to be in favour of postponement until 2028, but Shintaro Orihara, the Trackside General Manager, refuses to confirm this. When asked point-blank about Honda’s position, the Japanese executive dodged the question. “We are listening to the FIA decision, so we are waiting for their decision,” he said initially. After Orihara was reminded that this is a vote in which Honda participates, the engineer added, “A major overhaul. It’s difficult to say.”