Torque

Torque is the twisting force that a Formula 1 power unit applies to the driveshaft to make the car accelerate. Together with engine speed it defines power output, and the way torque is delivered across the rev range decides how driveable the car feels. Modern F1 uses careful torque mapping to give the driver a predictable pedal and prevent wheelspin without the electronic aids of the past.

What is torque in F1?

Torque is a rotational force, measured in newton-metres. In an F1 car the ICE and MGU-K deliver torque to the crankshaft, which is transmitted through the clutch and gearbox to the rear wheels. Combined with rotational speed it produces power (power = torque times angular velocity), and the shape of the torque curve across the rev range is what defines an engine's character.

Torque delivery and driveability

An F1 engine that delivers 900 horsepower peaks at around 15,000 rpm, but the way its torque builds from low speed defines whether the driver can plant the throttle out of a slow corner or has to feed it in gently. Teams use torque maps, look-up tables in the ECU that translate throttle pedal position into requested engine torque, to shape the feel of the car. A steeper map gives quick response but risks wheelspin; a softer map is easier to drive but slower.

Torque maps and the FIA

Torque maps are legal, but the FIA polices them for signs of hidden traction control. Every torque map must be monotonic: for a given engine speed, more pedal must mean more torque. If a map ever reduces torque as the pedal goes further down (which would suggest wheelspin-triggered intervention), the FIA can classify it as an illegal driver aid. Regular audits of team ECU code enforce this.

Frequently asked questions about torque

What is torque in F1?

Torque is the twisting force a power unit applies to the driveshaft. Combined with engine speed it defines power output.

How much torque does an F1 engine produce?

Peak torque figures for the current 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid are around 450 to 500 Nm, arriving at high engine speed and combined with the MGU-K instantaneous boost.

What is a torque map?

A torque map is a look-up table in the ECU that translates throttle pedal position into requested engine torque. It shapes the driveability of the car for the driver.

Are torque maps subject to FIA rules?

Yes. Every torque map must be monotonic, meaning more pedal always requests more torque at a given engine speed. Non-monotonic behaviour would suggest hidden traction control.

How does the MGU-K affect torque delivery?

The MGU-K adds up to 120 kW of instantaneous torque to the crankshaft, filling in torque holes across the rev range and making the driveline feel more responsive than the ICE alone.