Ferrari plans second ADUO Power Unit update with new turbocharger

Ferrari sets out its next ADUO move

Ferrari has already mapped out its second power unit development under the ADUO mechanism, with a newly designed turbocharger expected after the summer break as the team continues its push to reduce the gap to Mercedes.

Ferrari’s immediate focus is Austria, where its first round of ADUO modifications is aimed at narrowing the gap to Mercedes, widely regarded by most observers outside the FIA process as the true reference point. That context also links directly to Ferrari’s broader Austrian push, with recent simulation expectations covered in our report on Ferrari’s Austria upgrade and Mercedes title fight.

First update targets combustion efficiency

Ferrari is also doubling down on its ‘hot engine’ concept for Austria by raising cylinder operating temperatures to 110C during combustion, compared with the current 100C. In theory, higher temperatures improve efficiency, particularly when paired with a Shell fuel carrying a higher calorific value. The intended effect is to burn more particles, produce fewer residual emissions and increase the mechanical work generated by the engine.

There is also a packaging benefit. Higher running temperatures can permit smaller radiators, because the delta between heated and cooled engine coolant is reduced.

New turbocharger planned after the break

Ferrari’s second ADUO credit is expected to be spent on a redesigned turbocharger, likely arriving at Zandvoort or Monza. The impeller diameter is set to remain unchanged, but the number and angle of the blades will differ, with material developments also anticipated.

At the start of the season, Ferrari deliberately selected a small turbocharger to reduce turbo lag after the removal of the MGU-H. That choice was expected to offer an advantage, particularly at race starts. However, the FIA’s five-second pre-start procedure has effectively neutralised that benefit by giving every manufacturer enough time to spool up the turbo for safety reasons and avoid stalled cars on the grid.

Mercedes and Honda will not introduce ADUO engines, while Ferrari is seeking to follow Audi’s early move in Barcelona by gaining performance headroom. Ferrari’s Barcelona package had already shown that the team could offset the 067/6 engine’s power deficit to Mercedes through more efficient, lower-drag aerodynamics, with the rumoured 25-horsepower shortfall appearing less visible in the intense Spanish heat.