Photo: Aston Martin F1 Team
Honda confirms Aston Martin engine upgrade for Dutch Grand Prix
Honda has confirmed that Aston Martin will receive an upgraded power unit at the Dutch Grand Prix, with chief engineer Shintaro Orihara saying the team is using the next two races to gather final data before introducing the new specification.
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Honda will introduce an upgraded power unit for Aston Martin at the Dutch Grand Prix following the summer break, as the Japanese manufacturer continues to work under Formula 1's ADUO (Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities) system.
Speaking ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, Honda trackside general manager and chief engineer Shintaro Orihara confirmed the timing of the update.
"We have two more races before we introduce the new engine. It's important to keep learning with this current specification so we can apply those findings to the upgraded package," said Orihara.
The new power unit is expected to provide Aston Martin with a much-needed boost after a difficult first half of the 2026 season. Under the ADUO mechanism, Honda has been granted additional development opportunities after its power unit was identified as the weakest in the current field.
Looking ahead to Spa-Francorchamps, Orihara highlighted the challenge of managing energy deployment on one of Formula 1's fastest circuits.
"Spa is a real test of energy management. Getting the deployment strategy right on the long straights will be crucial, while reliability is always a key factor," added Orihara
Aston Martin is expected to remain on the back foot in Belgium and Hungary before the upgraded engine makes its debut at Zandvoort. The Silverstone-based team has already shifted much of its focus towards developing its 2027 challenger.
