Honda Reveals First Images Of New Formula 1 Power Unit For 2026

Honda has revealed the first images of its new engine which will power Aston Martin’s Formula 1 cars from this season.

The Japanese manufacturer has returned to F1, for its fifth stint in the series, in a new exclusive works deal with Aston Martin. The British sports car brand was previously a Mercedes engine customer.

Aston Martin owner Lawrence is hopeful his team will recreate the success Red Bull enjoyed with Honda’s engines in recent years, when they powered the team to two constructors’ championships and helped Max Verstappen win four drivers’ titles. He said the two organisations will benefit from operating as factory partners.

“Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team is entering into a true works partnership with Honda, meaning the chassis and PU are designed as one integrated package, a move that is crucial to the aspiration to win championships,” he said. “The team is also proud to have Aramco providing sustainable fuels and Valvoline with lubricants for the first time. These strong technical partnerships are absolutely vital to success and thanks go out to Honda, Aramco and Valvoline for sharing the same vision and working tirelessly side-by-side.”

“The close collaboration between the UK base of Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team and HRC Sakura in Japan has already grown into a very close partnership, now with everything needed to achieve success. The team’s drivers also have tremendous trust in the Honda PU and its engineers. Andy Cowell’s new role as the chief strategy officer within the team is reflective of just how closely everyone is working together. His huge expertise is helping the team move forward side by side.”

Honda also revealed new-look lettering for its branding, which it presented on an Aston Martin show car.

“Machines powered by the RA626H will bear a new H mark with a refreshed design, Honda adopted as the new symbol representing its automobile business,” said Honda’s director, president and representative executive officer Toshiro Mibe. “This symbolises the transformation of its automobile business and will be used for F1 machines and manufacturer machines within other motorsport series – given the intention to compete in IndyCar, Super GT, Super Formula Championship and Super Taikyu Series.”

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Honda last participated in F1 as an engine constructor between 2015 and 2021. After it withdrew from the championship, Red Bull continued to use its power units, and Honda re-applied its branding to them in 2023 after deciding to make a return when F1 introduced new power unit regulations this year.

“This season, F1 will undergo a major change in regulations for both the chassis and PU,” said Mibe. “For the latter, the electrical power output produced by the motor and battery will be increased to roughly three times its current output, and the use of advanced sustainable fuel will be required for the engine.

“In other words, F1 is evolving into a next-generation motorsport that takes on the challenges of both electrification and decarbonisation. Moreover, the F1 cost cap system requires each PU manufacturer to pursue development efficiency to achieve the maximum results within limited development resources.”

“Honda views F1 not only as the pinnacle of automotive technology but as a place to develop its human resources,” he added. “Honda engineers, rigorously trained in world class competition, will return to the development of production models and create products that offer even greater joy and inspiration to its customers.”

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