Article C5.19.4

DC-DC Unit Diode

Technical Regulations

Article C5.19.4

FIA Source

DC-DC Unit Diode

Chapter: C5

In Simple Terms

F1 cars must have a special one-way valve (diode) in their power system that prevents energy from flowing backwards from the DC-DC Unit into the Energy Store. This is a safety feature that must be built into the design and can be checked by inspectors.

  • A diode must be installed at the positive high voltage connection of the DC-DC Unit
  • The diode acts as a one-way valve, preventing reverse energy flow into the Energy Store (ES)
  • This requirement must be guaranteed by the car's design and be visually verifiable during technical inspections
  • This is a safety mechanism to protect the electrical power system from damage
Official FIA Text

A diode must be fitted, in series, at the DC-DC Unit positive high voltage pole to ensure that electrical energy cannot flow from the DC-DC Unit into the ES. This must be guaranteed by design and verifiable by inspection.

dc-dc unitdiodeenergy storehigh voltageelectrical safety
2026 Season Regulations