Aston Martin’s F1 team principal and CEO, Andy Cowell, has shared promising developments regarding their 2026 power unit collaboration with Honda. With Honda parting ways with Red Bull at the end of the current season, the Japanese manufacturer is now working closely with Aston Martin as their exclusive works partner. Cowell explained that both the Honda power unit and Aston Martin’s transmission are being meticulously engineered to fit together seamlessly, highlighting ongoing tests at Honda’s Sakura facility and Aston Martin’s Silverstone base.
The team is holding frequent meetings to align the development process across both organizations. Daily discussions and senior-level reviews are helping ensure that everyone remains focused and aligned on the technical integration. Cowell emphasized how vital it is to maintain momentum and precision as Aston Martin shifts from being a customer team to a factory works team
This shift represents a significant transformation for Aston Martin amid sweeping changes in F1 regulations. Alongside constructing a new factory and implementing new equipment, the team is embracing major organizational changes. Cowell praised the team’s dedication, highlighting a shared drive to succeed and a willingness to adapt to new responsibilities and working methods. The energy, he said, is “enthusiastic and enjoyable.”
Meanwhile, Honda is optimistic about their progress this time around. Honda Racing president Koji Watanabe noted that unlike 2015, when they returned to F1 underprepared, the current development effort is far smoother due to lessons learned. He expressed confidence in the project’s direction, citing a more solid foundation and a capable technical team behind the engine development.
A notable addition to Aston Martin’s technical leadership is Adrian Newey, who joins as managing technical partner and shareholder. Reuniting with Honda, Newey’s involvement adds further weight to the project. Watanabe expressed his excitement at collaborating with Newey again, signaling high ambitions for producing a competitive Formula 1 car by 2026. Together, Honda and Aston Martin are laying the groundwork for what they hope will be a breakthrough era in F1.
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