Mercedes-Benz Motorsport has long emphasized the importance of collaboration with strong customer teams as a cornerstone of their Formula 1 strategy. This approach, as highlighted by Toto Wolff, Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, offers significant advantages, creating a competitive environment, accelerating technical advancements, and reinforcing the business model for Mercedes-Benz in F1. The robust performance of teams like McLaren, especially in recent seasons, underscores the value of providing transparent and equitable resources to all customer teams, fostering a landscape where more teams can contend for podium finishes.
Looking ahead to 2026, Formula 1 is set to introduce new power unit regulations, marking a significant technical shift. These regulations will welcome new manufacturers and usher in an era of 50% internal combustion and 50% electrical power in the power units. This balance is achieved through enhanced electrical performance and a recalibrated internal combustion engine, together capable of producing over 1000 horsepower. The Mercedes F1 Engine development is central to this transition.
These next-generation Mercedes F1 engines will be powered by 100% sustainable fuels, adhering to strict sustainability standards throughout production and formulation, while also reducing overall fuel consumption. The electrical components of the power unit will reach unprecedented levels of performance, featuring a single 350 kW electric motor. This represents a nearly threefold increase in power compared to the current MGU-K system and necessitates the development of advanced, high-performance battery technology.
Furthermore, the development of these cutting-edge Mercedes F1 engines will operate under cost cap regulations. These financial constraints are designed to control maximum technical expenditure on the project and solidify the economic rationale for power unit supply within Formula 1, ensuring a sustainable future for engine innovation in the sport.
