The new engine coming in to Formula 1 this year is ridiculous. So ridiculous, in fact, that Formula 1 has decided not to call it an ‘engine’ but rather, a ‘power unit.’

This turbocharged, hybrid-electric 1.6 litre V6 beast cranks out a mean 760 horsepower. And when you take into account the fact that it will be powering vehicles that weigh about 500kg – you realise the immensity of the potential.

It translates to 1,520 horsepower per ton. For perspective, the Bugatti Veyron operates at around a thousand horsepower per ton.

This development comes in spite of F1 teams having to downsize their engines from 2.4 litres, and also in spite of having to somehow incorporate a “green component” into their engines.

That green component comes in the form of a pair of energy recovery systems that pull in juice from exhaust pressure and braking.

You have permission to drool.

[Source : Wired]