Formula 1 | Sensational move by Honda and Renault: four power units planned for 2018!

Sensational indiscretion that leaks from the Barcelona paddock: Honda and Renault have planned four power units for the next Formula One world championship. Although the new regulation imposes the maximum use of three units for twenty-one championship events, Renault and Honda would have chosen an extremely more aggressive path, adding an "extra" power train to be exploited during the next world championship. The objective would be to compensate for the performance differences with Ferrari and Mercedes by using, presumably towards the end of the championship, a fresher power unit, capable of bringing out a better performance in terms of cavalry and reliability. The news has obviously not been confirmed by the parties involved, but if made official it would be a real blow to the Federation.

This program also it would allow the two engine engineers additional development to bring to the track, a more fundamental factor than ever for two brands which, with extreme difficulty, are trying to catch up with those who have been in command in terms of performance and reliability for three years. Red Bull, we remember, has repeatedly pushed for a return to the old regulation, i.e. four units for twenty-one events, but Ferrari's opposition blocked any discussion, forcing the Strategy Group to continue on its path.

Roberto Valenti