Toto Wolff, the Mercedes boss, has revealed that the 2026 F1 cars could reach speeds close to 400 km/h, highlighting the potential impact of the new 2026 F1 cars power unit speed. This development follows recent FIA and Formula 1 meetings that approved a major overhaul of regulations set to transform the sport’s power units and aerodynamics from the 2026 season onwards.
2026 F1 Regulations Set to Dramatically Change Car Design and Power Units
The 2026 season will introduce a comprehensive update to F1 cars, including new power units, chassis dimensions, and aerodynamic concepts. The cars are expected to be shorter, narrower, and lighter, with innovative active aerodynamic components replacing current systems. Although the total power output remains similar to present regulations, the distribution between the internal combustion engine (ICE) and the hybrid system shifts significantly.
The updated power units will retain the 1.6L V6 turbocharged engine but reduce its contribution from approximately 560 kW down to 400 kW. In contrast, the electric hybrid component will increase its output from 120 kW to 350 kW, reflecting a stronger reliance on electric power. This transformation aims to enhance efficiency while maintaining thrilling on-track performance.
New Aerodynamics Remove DRS, Employing Active Wing Elements for Speed Control
The familiar drag reduction system (DRS), which has allowed cars to increase straight-line speed by opening a flap in the rear wing, will be eliminated. Instead, F1 cars will use active aerodynamic elements on both front and rear wings. These adjustable components will change their angles dynamically depending on the driving mode.
The standard “Z-mode” configuration uses steeper wing angles to maximize downforce, essential for cornering grip. On straights, the “X-mode” activates, flattening the wing elements to reduce drag and boost top-end speed.
Toto Wolff Highlights Potential for Unprecedented 400 km/h Speeds in 2026
Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff commented on the new power units and aerodynamics system, referencing simulation data to indicate extraordinary speed capabilities:
“When full power is deployed, we’ll be approaching the 400 km/h limit,” said Toto Wolff, based on the simulation data from the 2026 cars (via AMuS)
Currently, the top speed record in Formula 1 is 378 km/h, set by Valtteri Bottas at the 2016 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The 2026 cars are expected to surpass this figure on straights, although their cornering speeds may decrease due to the change from venturi tunnels to a flat underfloor design, impacting downforce generation through the floor.
Mercedes Faces Strong Competition: Wolff Eyes Ferrari and Aston Martin-Honda for 2026
Despite speculation that Mercedes will dominate the 2026 regulation changes, Toto Wolff downplayed such assumptions:
“It’s just gossip; we don’t know anything,” (via Gazzetta dello Sport)
When asked about key rivals, Wolff expressed respect for Ferrari and the renewed strength of Honda, which is re-entering Formula 1 alongside Aston Martin:
“I expect Ferrari to be very competitive and Honda has shown how strong it is. I expect a lot from them with Aston Martin.”
Honda had previously exited the sport after partnering with Red Bull but is now returning through its collaboration with Aston Martin, who will unveil a new car designed by Adrian Newey for the 2026 campaign.
Implications for the Future of Formula 1 Racing
The shift towards hybrid-dominant power units combined with advanced active aerodynamics represents a fundamental change in Formula 1’s technical landscape. Cars capable of reaching nearly 400 km/h will push performance limits while also aiming to improve racing spectacle by offering closer competition. The redistribution of power between ICE and electric motors aligns with wider trends toward sustainability within motorsports.
As teams prepare for these new regulations, the battle between manufacturers such as Mercedes, Ferrari, and Aston Martin–Honda promises to be intense, likely shaping the competitive dynamics of Formula 1 for the coming decade.