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Honda to fit 'Spec 2' engine to all four cars in Baku

Honda will introduce an updated internal combustion engine in Baku this weekend, with Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso both receiving the 'spec 2' ICE.

Honda's efforts since last year have delivered improved performance and reliability to its power unit, enabling Red Bull Racing's new engine supplier to inch closer to its rivals.

The Japanese company will take another step forward on the performance front in Azerbaijan, a well-timed development at a venue whose long 2.1km straight underlines sheer engine power.

Verstappen counting on Honda to improve race starts

"The fourth round of the championship takes place on the fastest street circuit on the calendar," commented Honda technical director Toyoharu Tanabe.

"The key features of the Baku track are the main straight, which is over 2 kilometres in length and the many right angle corners, typical of a city circuit.

"From a PU point of view, the long straight means energy management is an important factor and we will use the lessons we learned here last year when it comes to optimising our settings."

©RedBull

No Red Bull driver will be left behind in Baku, with Max Verstappen, Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon and Daniil Kvyat all set to be powered by Honda's updated ICE.

"This weekend, we will introduce the Spec 2 version of our internal combustion engine (ICE) across all four cars right from the start of the weekend," added Tanabe-san.

"One of the reasons for bringing it to this race is that we found that Kvyat’s PU problem in China was down to a quality control issue.

"The main benefits of Spec 2 are improved durability and life and better reliability. It also offers a slight improvement in performance."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.