James Vowles stated that negotiations about the Formula 1 engines for 2027 remain open, despite increasing disagreements among manufacturers. The Williams boss assured that ‘nothing is dead’ in the discussions involving the possible change in the power split between combustion and electric systems.
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After the Miami GP, the proposal to change the power distribution to a ratio of 60% combustion engine and 40% electric part seemed to be heading towards a consensus among the category’s engine manufacturers. However, in recent weeks, Ferrari and Audi reportedly backed down from their initial support, increasing uncertainty about the final approval of the changes.
This resistance from the two manufacturers may be enough to prevent any changes in the regulations. The topic has become one of the main current political disputes in Formula 1, precisely because approval depends on broad support among power unit suppliers.
Speaking to the press in Canada, Vowles highlighted that all parties remain involved in the talks and acknowledge that there are still points to improve in the regulations planned for 2027. According to the British executive, the category has not yet reached the desired level in aspects such as performance in qualifying sessions and race dynamics.
“We all recognize that we are not yet where we would like to be with some of these regulations. No one has left the negotiating table,” said Vowles. The Williams boss also praised some races held this season, citing Miami and parts of the race in Shanghai as positive examples of the current moment in Formula 1.
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Despite the perceived progress, Vowles believes there is still room for improvement before the definitive arrival of the new rules: “We are moving in the right direction, but there are still more things we need to do,” added the Williams executive.
The Briton also explained that part of the disagreements happens because some manufacturers cannot react quickly to the proposed changes. According to him, the development of power units involves high investments and component planning up to eighteen months in advance.
“These operations are extremely expensive and it is very difficult to change direction quickly in a world of power units. But nothing is dead, it is just a matter of ensuring a balance between what can be achieved by all parties,” concluded Vowles.
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