McLaren engine partner Honda is considering radical changes to its power unit design in light of next year's token-free engine rules.

With limitations on development virtually tossed out for 2017, along with the token-based system, the Japanese manufacturer's engineers  have been prompted to re-think their design approach of their hybrid power unit.

On the run-up to its return to Grand Prix racing in 2015, Honda had initially committed - on McLaren's recommendation - to an incredibly compact design where components are tightly packed together  with the confines of its V-bank.

Unfortunately, the configuration has had a bearing on the efficiency of the unit's energy recovery system and ultimately its reliability.

While Honda believes its approach offers more advantages than drawbacks, with limitations subsiding for next season it is now evaluating a different approach involving placing the turbo and compressor on opposite sides  of the engine in order to generate a more reliable and performing package.

"We still haven’t decided the exact specification and layout, but it is better to have a more wide open area of design," commented Honda’s F1 chief Yusuke Hasegawa.

Honda has yet to decide how to deploy its outstanding development tokens in the near future, but Hasegawa admitted the manufacturer would be pulling out all the stops in order to bridge the gap with Mercedes for next year.

"We would like to do everything to improve our engine. We haven't decided yet, but everything we need to do we will do.

"Before the end of the season we have to decide the packaging. Every team wants to fix the design around September/October, but it is a tough challenge for us."

Exclusive Stoffel Vandoorne Q&A

FEATURE: Combined Barcelona testing times

Scene at the Spanish Grand Prix

Spanish Grand Prix - Quotes of the weekend

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.

Recent Posts

Alpine double-podium in Brazil could deliver $30 million windfall

Alpine’s remarkable double podium at the São Paulo Grand Prix with Esteban Ocon and Pierre…

14 hours ago

F1i's Driver Ratings for the 2024 São Paulo GP

Alexander Albon, Williams (Did Not Start): 5.5/10 Alex Albon is definitely going through something of…

16 hours ago

Jos Verstappen rips British media after Brazilian Max fest

Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand…

17 hours ago

Leclerc left with ‘mixed feelings’ after disappointing Sao Paulo GP

Charles Leclerc's weekend in Sao Paulo was unfortunately a stark contrast to Ferrari's recent triumphs…

19 hours ago

Back when Kimi knew exactly what he was doing

Twelve years ago on this day, Kimi Raikkonen took a popular win at the 2012…

20 hours ago

Mercedes fined for starting grid tyre pressure infringement

The Mercedes team was hit with a fine by the FIA after Sunday’s Sao Paulo…

21 hours ago