Aston Martin in "right moment" to look into own engine for 2026

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Aston Martin in "right moment" to look into own engine for 2026

F1 is set for more electric power in 2026

Ian Parkes & Topher Smith

Friday 4 March 2022 13:40

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New Aston Martin team principal Mike Krack believes it is the "right moment" for the organisation to evaluate building its own engine for 2026 when a new set of power unit regulations come into effect.

F1 is set to continue using a 1.6-litre V6 hybrid system from 2026 albeit with no MGU-H and with the electrical output increased to 350kW.

Krack, who has returned to F1 after overseeing BMW's motorsport programme that included projects such as GT racing and the all-electric Formula E championship, believes F1 is heading in the right direction with its engines.

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"First of all, I have to say we are happy with the engine partner we have," said Krack, referring to Aston Martin's partnership with Mercedes.

"We have a new set of regulations coming for 2026 with more emphasis on electric power than today.

"It’s normal for brands like Aston Martin that if there are new power unit regulations that you look into them and carefully investigate if it is strategically the right thing.

"It is the right step that F1 is taking to have a higher hybrid bias over electric power."

Aston Martin to review its choices

Krack also stated the timeline for introducing the new engine regulations is positive given the rumours of possible entries by Porsche and Audi.

In turn, it is also appropriate at this stage for Aston Martin to consider its options.

"I’ve been involved with BMW in both Formula E, which is full-electric, and with the hypercar, a hybrid similar to F1 although not the same," added Krack.

"Now we are in 2022 and the timelines are reasonable to introduce them in 2026 because we know other competitors are evaluating whether to make an entry.

"So from the timeline, it is reasonable, if you take this decision, to be on the grid in 2026 with your own [engine] then it is the right moment to look into it."