Honda to bring significantly upgraded F1 engine for Zandvoort
Honda is preparing a significantly upgraded power unit for the next Formula 1 round in Zandvoort, using a special development allowance to help Aston Martin recover from a tough start. The manufacturer says lessons from the current engine will also pay off on tracks like Monza.
Honda will introduce a significantly upgraded Formula 1 engine at the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, which takes place after the summer break. The manufacturer is using the additional development and upgrade opportunity (ADUO) mechanism to address the current shortcomings of its power unit.
Honda's Orihara explained that the team deliberately continued to gather experience with the current specification. That data on energy deployment is expected to prove useful at circuits with long straights, including Monza. The update is therefore intended not only to provide immediate gains, but also to support future races.
The improved engine is vital for Aston Martin, which has endured a difficult start to the season. The green cars have so far been able to fight only the debutant Cadillac team at the bottom of the standings. Honda's power unit is currently regarded as the weakest in the championship, so the upgrade could alter the team's prospects.
Aston Martin has redirected most of its resources toward developing its 2027 car in the hope of a stronger future. Still, the Honda improvements could offer at least some relief in the second half of the season as the team looks to climb the order and recover from a difficult opening phase.
