The opening two rounds of the 2026 Formula 1 season have provided an early glimpse into how teams are managing the new power unit regulations, with most manufacturers demonstrating strong initial reliability but some notable exceptions emerging. F1Technical’s analysis of component usage data reveals that the majority of the grid has remained conservative with their power unit allocation through the Melbourne and Shanghai races, using just one unit of each component type.
Under the revised 2026 regulations, drivers are allocated four Internal Combustion Engines, four Turbochargers, and four Exhaust systems, plus three MGU-K units, three Energy Stores, and three Control Electronics packages. Notably, one component from each allocation serves as a “bonus” unit, providing teams additional flexibility as they adapt to the significantly overhauled hybrid architecture before stricter regulations take effect next season.
Seven teams—McLaren, Ferrari, Williams, Haas, Audi, Alpine, and Racing Bulls—have maintained perfect component discipline through two races, with all drivers using only their first allocation across every category. However, this clean slate may not last long, as reigning champion Lando Norris is anticipated to require fresh components following his technical difficulties during the Shanghai weekend.
Mercedes shows the first signs of deviation from the baseline, with George Russell already utilizing his second Control Electronics and Power Unit Ancillaries after issues on the opening day in Australia. His rookie teammate Kimi Antonelli has remained on his original components. Meanwhile, Red Bull presents a stark contrast between drivers, as Max Verstappen maintains his pristine record while teammate Isack Hadjar has been forced onto his second unit in every component category following engine problems in Melbourne.
The most concerning early reliability picture belongs to Aston Martin, where Fernando Alonso has already moved to fresh MGU-K, Energy Store, and Control Electronics components, while Lance Stroll has used two ancillary sets. These anomalies are particularly noteworthy given ongoing discussions about the team’s hybrid systems and Honda engine vibration concerns heading into the 2026 campaign. Cadillac Ferrari presents another mixed scenario, with Sergio Pérez maintaining his original allocation while Valtteri Bottas has required two Control Electronics units and two ancillary sets, making him the highest-usage driver in those categories.