Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced plans to participate in the FIA Formula One World Championship (F1) from the 2026 season as a power unit supplier. In partnership with the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One Team, Honda will supply power units that are compliant with the new F1 power unit regulations that will take effect in the 2026 season.
Starting from the 2026 season, F1 will implement new regulations in pursuit of its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. These new regulations will enforce an engine/electric motor maximum power output ratio of 50/50, representing a significant increase in the deployment of electrical power compared to the current ratio. The regulations will also require the use of 100% sustainable fuel.
Under the 2026 regulations, F1 will require a reduction of engine output while tripling the output of the energy recovery system (ERS), which recovers kinetic energy under certain situations such as braking and converts it into electrical energy. This will result in a maximum power output that is roughly equal between the engine and motor.
These changes in F1 power unit regulations are consistent with the direction Honda has been taking toward the realization of carbon neutrality. Honda has been working toward the development of future technologies that can help achieve carbon neutrality, and the company sees working to these regulations as a significant opportunity to continue pursuing that goal.
The Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), which has become responsible for both auto and motorcycle motorsports activities since 2022, will take on the responsibility of developing power units, managing F1 racing, and participating in the races themselves. This move is consistent with Honda’s move toward a more integrated approach to motorsports development.
Overall, Honda’s decision to participate in the F1 championship as a power unit supplier is a significant move for the company, as it continues its efforts toward carbon neutrality. The new F1 power unit regulations represent a unique opportunity for Honda to pursue the development of future technologies that can help achieve that goal. As a result, many are sure to be watching Honda’s performance in the upcoming F1 season with great interest.
