‘An Engine That Will Perform Even Better’ – Honda Reveal Big ‘Ambition’ With Red Bull

Following several engine failures in 2018, Red Bull ended their partnership with Renault towards the end of the season. The Austrian team then partnered up with Honda for their next Formula 1 season.

The team have had a better relationship with Honda than they did with their previous power unit supplier. However, Honda’s collaboration with the Austrian team and AlphaTauri ends this year.

The Japanese company will see its last Formula 1 season in 2021 with Red Bull. After two years in F1, they are hoping for a successful last season. In a recent interview, the company’s technical director, Toyoharu Tanabe, stated their goal for the season.

“Our ambition remains intact; we want to conquer the world title. We have a relatively short break this year, but are working hard on an engine that will perform even better,” pointed out Tanabe.

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Honda’s boss on a better 2021 power unit for Red Bull

Red Bull had a decent season in 2021. Their star driver, Max Verstappen, won two Grand Prix and claimed several podiums while his teammate Alex Albon also claimed his first career podium. However, Mercedes was still fast all season when compared to the Austrian team.

Given that the team aims to compete with, and hopefully outrace, the Silver Arrows, they will need a better engine powering their cars.

Fortunately, the Honda boss has something similar in mind with their aims for the 2021 power unit.

“We are now developing the power unit for 2021, both for better performance and reliability. Of course the other teams are not sitting still and we also know that our position is still behind Mercedes, but we really want to win more races and take part in the championship.”

Tanabe pointed out that Red Bull was quite reliable last season. They learned a lot from their previous seasons and stuck with the three engines per driver rule and thus avoided any grid penalties.

Given that they’re entering the 2021 season on the back of 13 podium finishes and have entrusted Sergio Perez with their second driver role, they seem to be in good shape to fulfill their objectives.

Do you believe Honda can top off their strengths and finally provide them with a power unit that will allow the Austrian team to take the fight to Mercedes?