New FIA rules set to increase demand for innovative components

The FIA, Formula 1’s governing body, has outlined new technical regulations that will come into effect from 2026.  With teams needing to balance performance, efficiency, sustainability and cost-effectiveness, the changes will drive innovation in multiple aspects of Formula 1 car design and development to create cars that are more ‘nimble and raceable’.

With the focus on enhancing active aerodynamics, increased battery power and hybrid power unit efficiency, agility, increased safety, and the use of 100% sustainable fuels, engineering teams sketching designs for 2026 F1 cars will be making significant changes.

In anticipation of this new direction, our engineering team has designed several new components that will help F1 teams meet the regulations and achieve success.  These sensors are all manufactured in-house, can be customised to suit specific designs, and include:

• Cost-effective, programmable micro rotary sensors which have the same technical specification as our standard range, but in a smaller, lightweight package.  The sensors have a 30mm outer diameter package and weight range between 17-23g, in comparison to our standard sensors which weigh between 23-32g. Used in suspension and steering systems, gearbox and transmission, throttle position sensing, aerodynamics and more, the sensors will help engineers meet the stricter weight limit, which is 30kg lighter than the current spec.
   
• Robust EV Battery Cell Temperature Sensors for thermal management of the more powerful battery components that will generate three times the electrical power produced by the current hybrid engines. 2026 F1 power units are to be 50% electric and 50% internal combustion, with a manual override mode to create improved overtaking opportunities.

In addition, our high performance ELPM linear position sensors for harsh environment position measurement applications have a proven track record in motorsport applications. In the drive towards active aerodynamics to reduce drag on the straights, these sensors are used to monitor the position of the rear wing, one of the adjustable aerodynamic components. Further applications include gearbox position, ride height and suspension measurement. The data generated enables teams to optimise settings for maximum performance and reliability on the track.

Jordan Barber, Engineering Manager at Eurosensor, said: “Our R&D efforts are ongoing, with new products in the pipeline that will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in instrumenting the latest F1 design regulations. We expect a lot of the innovation to filter down and be integrated into the other race series; Formula 2, Formula E, Indycar, LMP1 - all of which are focussed on becoming greener and more environmentally friendly. ”

Contact our sales team to learn more about how our components can give your team a competitive edge.