What is the ERS in Formula 1?
The ERS (Energy Recovery System) is the hybrid part of an F1 power unit: it recovers energy during braking and releases it as extra electrical power on acceleration. It is the electric side of the engine.
ERS components
- MGU-K (Motor Generator Unit – Kinetic): recovers kinetic energy under braking and returns it as power on acceleration.
- Battery: stores recovered energy.
- MGU-H (Motor Generator Unit – Heat): recovers heat energy from the turbo. Removed in the 2026 regulations.
¿Te gustó este artículo?
Pon a prueba lo que aprendiste con nuestra app oficial Formula Trivia One Master.
Ver App GratisHow much power it delivers
| Era | Max electrical power (MGU-K) |
|---|---|
| 2014–2025 | ~120 kW (~160 hp) |
| 2026 onwards | 350 kW (~470 hp) |
The 2026 rules triple electrical power. The combustion and electric motors now deliver roughly equal output.
Why it matters
ERS directly affects car pace and strategy: there's a limit on energy used per lap, so driver and engineer decide when to spend and when to recharge. From 2026, with the override replacing DRS, ERS management is even more critical for attack and defence.
FAQ
Why was the MGU-H removed? To simplify and lower the cost of engines, attracting new manufacturers.
Can the driver activate ERS manually? There are automatic deployment maps, but the driver also has buttons to force extra power.
How much energy can be used per lap? The regulations cap it; in 2026 teams can spend and harvest more energy than before.
Is it the same as the KERS of 2009-2013? KERS was the predecessor: simpler and kinetic-only. ERS is far more powerful and central to the power unit.
Want to master F1 regulations and terminology? Test your knowledge with Formula One Trivia, the official app for iOS and Android.
