Audi open to 2027 engine rule changes, but only without hardware redesigns. Audi has outlined its position on potential 2027 Formula 1 engine rule changes.

Audi draws a line: 2027 engine changes only if hardware remains untouched

Audi has made its position clear regarding the ongoing discussions surrounding Formula 1’s 2027 power unit regulations. Speaking from the Monaco paddock, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner stressed that the German manufacturer is willing to support adjustments proposed by the FIA, but only if they do not require significant hardware changes to engines, chassis or gearboxes.

The debate centres on a possible revision of the planned power distribution between the internal combustion engine and the electrical system. Under the current framework, the balance is set at 50-50, but discussions are ongoing about shifting that ratio closer to 60-40 in favour of the combustion engine.

For Audi, however, maintaining stability remains the top priority. Formula 1, the FIA and the teams are currently evaluating several compromise solutions. One of the original proposals involved increasing fuel flow by 14%, equivalent to roughly 70 additional horsepower (50 kW). More recently, discussions have moved towards a far more moderate increase of around 5%.

Audi, together with Ferrari and Honda, opposed the larger 70-horsepower increase, although the manufacturers have indicated they are prepared to continue negotiations in search of a balanced solution.

Audi prioritises stability and cost control

Speaking to a selected group of journalists, including GP-News.net, Gernot Döllner reiterated that Audi would strongly prefer to avoid major regulatory changes ahead of the 2027 season: “Our perspective is to maintain stability; that is our clear vision. Entering a new environment such as Formula 1 is one of the reasons for this position. The other motivation is that we need to be cost-efficient.”

Döllner emphasised that financial considerations remain a central concern for Audi as it prepares for its full Formula 1 entry.

“This is the most important aspect for us,” he continued. “We must keep the budget cap in mind. Our innovation journey is perhaps a little steeper because we started from a lower position. Along that path, we need stability.”

Room for compromise, but no hardware redesigns

While Audi remains opposed to radical revisions, the company has left the door open to smaller adjustments that would not require extensive redesign work: “It is possible. In this case as well, the process is ongoing and is in good hands. We are part of the working group together with the other power unit manufacturers. I hope that in 2027 we will have a good solution.”

Following the rejection of the FIA’s original proposal, a compromise is beginning to emerge. One option under discussion would involve reducing aerodynamic load by around 40 to 50 points while limiting the fuel flow increase to approximately 5%.

Such an approach could potentially deliver similar performance objectives without forcing manufacturers to redesign major mechanical components, making it a far more attractive solution for several engine suppliers.

Audi wants to focus resources on performance growth

Audi’s position reflects a broader strategic objective. Rather than diverting significant resources into redesigning its power unit, the German manufacturer would prefer to focus on improving other key areas of the car, including the chassis, aerodynamics and gearbox.

Those areas are considered essential to accelerating the development of the team led by Mattia Binotto as Audi prepares for the next phase of its Formula 1 project.

The goal is clear: Audi wants to climb the competitive order and establish itself among Formula 1’s leading teams, rather than spending valuable time and resources reacting to major regulatory changes that could force a complete rethink of its technical package.