Honda reveals 'secret' details of F1 engine upgrade for Dutch GP

Honda has lifted the lid on the technical details behind its upgraded engine, which will be fitted to the Aston Martin car at the Dutch Grand Prix later this month. This marks the first significant step for the Japanese manufacturer since returning as an F1 power unit supplier in 2026.

Honda's chief F1 engineer, Shintaro Orihara, revealed that development focused on improving combustion performance. While declining to disclose full details, he shared some key changes designed to deliver more power.

"We focused to improve engine performance, to make combustion faster. It's kind of a secret, but I can disclose a little bit. We changed the pre-chamber to make combustion faster, and we also changed the piston shape to get good combustion," Orihara said.

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Additionally, Honda modified the lubrication system to reduce friction. Orihara mentioned a substantial list of improvements to boost overall engine performance. This upgrade comes in response to a challenging first half of the season for Honda and Aston Martin in their first year of partnership.

Earlier, Aston Martin introduced its own aerodynamic upgrade at the Hungarian Grand Prix last month. That step provided a noticeable performance gain, and Honda aims to replicate that effect with its engine development.

When asked about the expected horsepower increase, Orihara said: "I can't disclose the detailed number, but we have achieved our internal target. I'm confident in what the HRC Sakura factory guys achieved for the spec two engine."

He added, "We are excited to bring a new spec engine to the Netherlands, and we will see where we are." With renewed optimism, Honda and Aston Martin hope to compete more strongly in the second half of the 2026 season.