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Formula 1’s Future Power Unit Regulations Confirmed
Formula 1 will maintain its current power unit regulations and will not revert to V10 engines or naturally aspirated powertrains in the foreseeable future. The F1 Commission has reiterated its commitment to the power unit framework set to begin next season.
The FIA approved these regulations back in 2022, with engine manufacturers preparing for the changes through extensive development over several years.
Despite the regulations being firmly established, the FIA has allowed for the possibility of “minor refinements” to address pressing issues. One significant concern that has emerged is the potential for cars to exhaust their battery deployment before reaching the end of long straights, a situation that has raised alarms among drivers, teams, and fans alike.
To tackle this, the governing body is introducing a ‘turn down ramp rate’ system aimed at controlling the utilization of electric power. This will mean that cars will not have access to their full electric power immediately after exiting corners, promoting a more gradual consumption of electricity during acceleration on straights. The intention is to create a smoother increase in speed and to prevent drivers from prematurely using their entire energy reserve.
Under the new regulations, electric power is expected to constitute 50% of a car’s total output, which amounts to 350kW. However, there is also a proposal to limit the electric output to 200kW. This adjustment aims to provide more consistent electric power delivery throughout a lap, affecting tracks known for their power sensitivity, such as Jeddah, Monza, Baku, and Las Vegas, or potentially all circuits.
Upcoming Discussions on Changes
A meeting of the F1 Commission set for Thursday will delve into these regulations further. Some engine manufacturers have expressed skepticism regarding the notion that reducing electric power by 150kW while shifting the energy balance to only 35% electric can be deemed a minor refinement.
The opinions within the industry vary; certain power unit suppliers recall a similar scenario from the previous turbo era of F1, when cars exhibited significantly more power during qualifying than during races.
Support for the proposed changes has emerged, particularly from Red Bull’s team principal Christian Horner, who stated, “If they’re doing it in the interest of the sport, then you’ve got to support it.” In contrast, Mercedes’ Toto Wolff dismissed the idea, calling it “a joke.”
Meanwhile, Audi and Honda have shown little inclination to endorse any alterations, and sentiments at Ferrari are mixed. Team principal Frederic Vasseur has noted that some elements of the new regulations might have been underestimated and encouraged fellow team leaders not to reject changes simply to protect their competitive edge.
This discussion signifies a critical juncture for Formula 1 as it navigates the balance between technological advancement and maintaining the competitive integrity of the sport, illustrating the complexities involved in modern racing regulations.
Source
www.autosport.com