Honda and Aston Martin Aramco F1 unveil new power unit

Honda and Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team have officially launched their power unit (PU) partnership for the start of the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship.

Previously Aston Martin was powered by Mercedes engines but will change this year due to major changes in F1 regulations for both the chassis and PU. 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 addition, the F1 cost cap system requires each PU manufacturer to pursue development efficiency to achieve the maximum results within limited development resources.

As part of the new partnership, Honda will also launch its F1 activities using a new logo.

Both companies will work closely at the new Aston Martin Technology Centre at Silverstone, which includes a new wind tunnel with a new data centre being built to further strengthen the team’s capabilities.

Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman of Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team said: “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. 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.”

He continued: “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.”

Stefano Domenicali, President & CEO of Formula 1 added: “The exciting next generation of regulations for 2026 is one of the factors that has drawn Honda back to the sport. Those regulations will see both the chassis and PUs updated, in the biggest overhaul in the sport’s history. There will be a simplified hybrid engine that runs on advanced sustainable fuel without impacting the performance.