Getty Image
Formula 1 might well have a major problem on its hands if the Mercedes team’s testing simulations are any indication. The series is set to introduce new engine regulations beginning in 2026 that involve a move towards a 50/50 power split between internal combustion engines and a hybrid electric power system. But the new engines, at least for Mercedes, may well contain a fatal flaw.
José Zapico of Motor.ES reports that during simulations at the famed Monza circuit in Italy – which is the most power-reliant track on the calendar – Mercedes showed that the hybrid aspect of the engine was woefully short on power.
“Mercedes have had something unexpected and very worrying as an example in the simulations: the car exhausts all the electricity in the middle of Monza’s straight,” Zapico reports.
So, what does that mean. Well, if Zapico’s reporting is correct, it means that cars would finish the lengthy straight at Monza using only power from the internal combustion unit. In that case, the cars would be limited to somewhere between 540-570 horsepower, which is significantly less than the 620 horsepower run in the Formula 2 development series.
Formula 1 Facing 2026 Engine Quandary Following Results Of Mercedes Testing
The revelation comes at an interesting time as well. Formula 1 teams have recently discussed returning to V10 engines using sustainable fuel. The series currently runs 1.6-liter V6 engines with a hybrid aspect. They last ran V10 engine in 2006 and, at the time, the immense sound from the engines were a defining feature of the series.
“We should consider a range of directions including the roaring sound of the V10 running on sustainable fuel,” FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said in an Instagram post in February. “Whichever direction is chosen, we must support the teams and manufacturers in ensuring cost control on R&D expenditure.”
Whether or not Ben Sulayem knew of the eventual pitfalls of the hybrid system is anyone’s guess. But longtime Formula 1 fans certainly won’t need much convincing should the series opt to return to beloved V10 engines.