Honda have revealed the first image of the power unit that McLaren will use in 2015
Engine currently undergoing bench tests with turbocharger and ERS connected
Wednesday 1 October 2014 11:42, UK
Honda have revealed the first image of the power unit that McLaren will use when the Japanese manufacturer returns to Formula 1 in 2015.
The firm are rekindling a partnership with the Woking-based squad that yielded four consecutive drivers’ and constructors’ titles between 1988 and 1991. Honda last competed in F1 in 2008 when they fielded a manufacturer effort.
Ahead of the Japanese GP at Suzuka, Head of Motorsport Yasuhisa Arai announced that engine tests are at an advanced stage and that their British base is now fully operational.
"Working toward Honda's F1 participation starting in the 2015 season, development of the power unit is entering its prime phase at our R&D facility in Sakura (Tochigi, Japan), where we transferred our automobile motor sports development earlier this year,” he said.
“In addition to conducting simulations, we have moved onto the next stage where we conduct full-fledged bench tests of the engine while connecting the turbocharger and energy recovery systems. In the meantime, our racing operation base in Milton Keynes, United Kingdom, has become fully operational.
“At this time, we are unveiling an image of our power unit that is under development. The whole team is concentrating on this development, getting ready for the forthcoming start of F1 participation in 6 months. Please stay tuned for further updates."
Rather than being handed a track debut early next year, the engine could be given its first run in a McLaren at the post-season test in Abu Dhabi after Racing Director Eric Boullier revealed that "it’s very likely to be before Jerez".
Related story – Honda: No decision made on McLaren’s 2015 line-up
The 2014 Japanese GP is live on Sky Sports F1 this weekend. Extensive coverage of Race Day at Suzuka begins at 5.30am on Sunday with lights out at 7am.
