Honda aims for “full use of ERS” in Budapest

Honda motorsport boss Yasuhisa Arai says the Japanese engine supplier aims to give “full use” of the energy recovery systems (ERS) to partner team McLaren at this weekend’s Hungarian Grand Prix.

Returning to Formula One in 2015, Honda has been struggling to get on top on the hybrid power unit technology introduced last year and suffered a raft of reliability issues.

Part of its trouble has lain in failing to fully exploit the ERS, which comprise of two motor-generator units – the MGU-K and H – and is a key component in the new engine regulations.

“Our goal is to end the first half of the season with precise energy management and full use of the ERS to enable the drivers' skills to shine through at this circuit,” said Arai.

“The Hungaroring is a twisty track that’s mostly made up of continuous slow- to mid-speed corners and various elevation changes that makes it very difficult to overtake. Each corner is technical and tight, but there is a certain flow to it that makes it different from a stop-and-go circuit.

“Due to its lack of long straights and full-throttle sectors, this track is less strenuous for the power unit compared to most circuits. However, the frequent undulation requires more precise energy management and deployment at lower gears and corner exits.”

The trip to Budapest also bears a special significance for Honda, with Jenson Button securing the constructor’s most recent F1 win – and his maiden victory – at the Hungaroring in 2006.

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