The modern F1 power unit is complex engineering pushed to the very limits of known tolerances. The current generation 1.6-litre V6-turbo hybrids are the Mount Everest of performance, that is to say, you may well have ascended to the top, but the descent is equally as tough. The engines develop a massive 1,000hp. Current engine development is halted until new power units arrive with new engine regulations in 2026.

But that is then, the now is still relevant. One of the key components in a 2022 F1 engine is the MGU-K unit which is embedded into the engine. It’s kind of like an electrical turbocharger, let me put it this way. With a conventional mechanical turbo exhaust gas is directed to the turbo unit which then spools the turbines and generates extra power. However, the MGU-K is much more controllable than a conventional turbo.

The MGU-K works in a similar manner to a turbo in that it collects waste energy of some sort. The MGU-K’s turbo-boosting is generated by kinetic braking forces which is then collected as electrical energy. This energy is stored and deployed at the driver’s command. The MGU-K is directly linked to the engine’s crank. Anyway Mercedes F1 MD explains all.