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Honda: We allow Red Bull to use our F1 PU technology

Paul Velasco

Honda have granted Red Bull the rights to use their Formula 1 power unit technology as the Japanese auto giant shifts resources to become carbon neutral by the middle of the century.

They wrote on Twitter today: “Honda is pleased that, following our decision to leave Formula 1 at the end of 2021, we have been able to reach an agreement for the two Red Bull-owned teams to use our F1 PU technology in F1 after 2021.”

This has allowed Red Bull to launch a Powertrains division as they envelop the Honda PU operation and thus the energy drinks outfit has now become an ‘F1 engine manufacturers’ of sorts.

Notably, the last time Honda pulled the plug on an F1 operation, at the end of 2008 they handed the keys to Ross Brawn whose one year wonder Brawn Grand Prix team took Jenson Button to his single world title before it transmuted into the Mercedes we know today.

Red Bull fans will be hoping that history repeats itself when the battling Bulls logo is engraved into the team’s future PUs.

Honda Statement:

“We are fully committed to our goal of Honda being carbon neutral by 2050, which is why we are diverting our Fl resources to this new target.

“However, as a company that has been involved in Formula 1 for several decades, we felt it was the right thing to do to help our two current teams and indeed the sport as a whole.

“By allowing Red Bull Racing and Scuderia AlphaTauri to use our F1 PU technology it should ensure they can race competitively, which is also good for the sport and the fans.”

Signed by Koji Watanabe Chief Officer Brand and Communication Operations Honda Motor Co., Ltd