Mercedes-Benz Motorsport has long emphasized the importance of collaboration with strong customer teams as a cornerstone of their Formula 1 strategy. Toto Wolff, Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, highlighted this strategic approach, stating, “It has been a cornerstone of our motorsport strategy to work with strong customer teams.” This approach offers significant advantages, providing a clear competitive benchmark, accelerating technical learning, and strengthening the overall F1 business case for Mercedes-Benz. The relationship with McLaren, in particular, has been a key example of this successful strategy.
Since 2021, McLaren has emerged as a fierce and respected competitor, especially showcasing impressive performance gains in the latter half of the current season. Wolff acknowledged McLaren’s competitiveness, noting, “McLaren have been fierce and fair competitors since 2021, especially in the second half of this season.” McLaren’s resurgence and strong performances serve to underscore a crucial point: the necessity of transparent and equitable supply to all customer teams within Formula 1. This fair approach is vital if the sport aims to achieve a grid where all ten teams are capable of challenging for podium finishes, enhancing overall competition and fan engagement.
Image alt text: Toto Wolff, Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, discussing the strategic importance of customer teams like McLaren in Formula 1.
Looking ahead to 2026, Formula 1 is set to undergo a significant transformation with the introduction of new power unit regulations. This era will welcome two new power unit manufacturers alongside the existing four, marking another paradigm shift in the sport’s technical landscape. The forthcoming power units will represent a groundbreaking 50/50 split between internal combustion and electrical power. This balance is achieved through advancements in electrical performance and a recalibration of the internal combustion engine’s output, collectively targeting a maximum power output exceeding 1000 horsepower.
These next-generation power units are also committed to environmental sustainability, mandated to run on 100% sustainable fuels. These fuels will adhere to stringent sustainability criteria throughout their production and formulation processes. Furthermore, the regulations aim to reduce overall fuel consumption within the sport. The electrical components of the power unit are being elevated to new performance heights, featuring a single 350 kW electric motor. This represents a nearly threefold increase in power compared to the current Motor Generator Unit-Kinetic (MGU-K) and necessitates the development of advanced, high-performance battery systems to support this increased electrical demand.
Image alt text: A Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 car showcasing the advanced engineering and power unit technology that benefits customer teams like McLaren.
In a move to ensure financial sustainability and encourage innovation within a controlled budget, the development of these new generation power units will be governed by cost cap regulations. These regulations are specifically designed to limit the maximum technical expenditure on power unit projects. This strategic financial oversight aims to consolidate the investment case for power unit supply within Formula 1, ensuring a more sustainable and competitive future for all participants, including valued partners like McLaren. The continued collaboration between McLaren and Mercedes, therefore, is not just a partnership but a strategic alliance poised to thrive in the evolving landscape of Formula 1.
