Despite Audi being among the manufacturers opposed to the 60/40 split proposal between combustion and electric power for Formula 1’s 2027 engine regulations, Nico Hülkenberg stated he is open to the change advocated by four-time champion Max Verstappen. He acknowledged that the alteration could bring benefits, especially in reducing reliance on energy management.
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“Well, it’s not about what I want, it’s about what happens. It’s clearly a big discussion among all manufacturers, there needs to be an agreement from what I understand. I think it would help in certain areas and make life easier, especially in qualifying, being a little less dependent on some energy issues. So, yes, I think I’m open to it,” the German told GPBlog.
The position is noteworthy because it diverges from the stance adopted by Audi in discussions among manufacturers. When informed of this, Hülkenberg did not dispute it and emphasized the complexity of the topic, especially with the arrival of the Agreed Development Agreement (ADUO).
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“I think there are different proposals circulating. I don’t know exactly which ones, but it’s clearly political, and with the ADUO coming into effect now for the first time, it’s a bigger discussion. Many of these things also seem easy, but I think many people don’t understand how complex it is and the ripple effect it has on the engine, on development, and you end up having to redesign certain things. And these things don’t get redesigned in a month, they are more complex issues.”
The 60/40 split proposal has been advocated by Verstappen, who considers the reliance on electric power in the 2026 regulations excessive. Supporters of the change believe it would favor on-track battles, while opponents warn of the costs and technical impacts of altering the ongoing design.
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