The 2026 power unit eliminates the MGU-H and significantly increases reliance on electrical energy. The MGU-K output rises to approximately 350kW, creating a near 50/50 split between internal combustion and electric power. This shift prioritizes energy recovery, deployment strategy, and road-relevant hybrid technology.

Active aerodynamics replace the traditional DRS system. Cars will switch between low-drag and high-downforce configurations through movable front and rear wing elements. This reduces drag on straights while maintaining cornering performance, improving efficiency and overtaking potential.

Cars are shorter, narrower, and lighter to improve agility and reduce aerodynamic wake. The reduced wheelbase and width aim to enable closer racing, better cornering responsiveness, and improved overtaking in wheel-to-wheel scenarios.

With increased electrical power, race strategy will center around energy harvesting and deployment. Cars will feature enhanced energy release capabilities when following another car, enabling drivers to deploy additional electrical power tactically during overtaking phases.

Reduced fuel flow and increased electrical reliance mean drivers must actively manage energy throughout a lap. Lift-and-coast, harvesting zones, and deployment timing become critical to overall race pace.