Fans will need to get used to the unusual engine sound of the 2026 F1 season.

      "During certain parts of a lap, the engine functions as a generator."

      Mercedes engine chief Hywel Thomas notes that Formula 1 fans will need to acclimate to a "completely new soundscape" when the next-generation power units are introduced in 2026. Although the new engines will still use the 1.6-litre V6 design and eliminate the MGU-H, the most striking change for spectators might be the sound of the cars—especially in unexpected segments of the lap.

      "Typically, the engines operate at low revs during braking and cornering," Thomas clarified. "In the future, the revs, and consequently the noise level, will noticeably increase, even though the cars aren’t actually accelerating."

      This change stems from the teams having to manage energy recovery in the absence of the MGU-H. While braking will continue to recharge the battery, it won't suffice to meet the significantly higher electrical demands of the new power units. As a result, teams have developed a workaround that will greatly influence both the behavior and sound of the cars.

      "We needed to innovate," Thomas stated. "The engine shifts to full-throttle mode while braking and cornering to generate additional energy, which is then sent directly to the battery. Thus, for certain sections of a lap, the engine operates as a generator."

      This means fans should anticipate high-rev engine sounds even in low-speed areas—a peculiarity that may initially be surprising. Although the elimination of the MGU-H sparked expectations of a louder, more classic engine sound, Thomas advised caution.

      "The sound will only alter slightly," he indicated. "This change isn’t solely attributed to the removal of the MGU-H, but is also related to modifications to the turbo. The backpressure diminishes because the turbo isn’t required to power the electric motor. This results in a somewhat louder sound."

      "However, only three-quarters of the fuel intended for the engine is actually usable. In our testing, we noted a comparable noise level to that of previous models."

      Production of the first 2026-spec Mercedes engines, designated for McLaren, Williams, Alpine, and the factory team, will commence soon at Brixworth.