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Rumours Williams could be set to switch to customer Honda power for 2017 have been denied. After a woeful 2015, Honda has made a step forward with its exclusive works partner McLaren this year, new director Yusuke Hasegawa says.
"We had reliability and both drivers were happy with the car," he is quoted by Austria's Laola1 after the Australian grand prix. "The power unit is not yet strong enough so we need to increase the performance." And the Japanese admitted that until Honda steps forward some more, "no customer will want our engines".
That, however, has not stopped speculation it could be Williams who is eyeing the switch to Honda, even though McLaren's Ron Dennis seems defiant in defending McLaren's exclusive deal. But even Mercedes boss Toto Wolff ruled out Honda engines for Williams, given the team's contract with the German carmaker. "No," the Austrian told Auto Bild. "They (Williams) have a contract with Mercedes until 2020."
It is understood Force India's Mercedes deal also runs through 2020. (GMM)
Grand Prix of Belgium
C. Sainz jr
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Replies (4)
Login to replykhasmir
Posts: 893
Silly rumours... I don't think any other team than McLaren is interested in the Honda PU ;)
Unless they are really desperate...
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
It wouldnt benefit them. Williams have a contract with the best engine supplier as of present, and do great with them. To benefit from the Honda engine they'd have to switch chassis philosophy from straight line speed to corner speed, and thats easier said than done. If they really want a smaller engine and about the same power a Ferrari engine would make more sense, or perhaps even attracting a brand new supplier. I definitely dont see them reverting to Renault engines though.
Pompey
Posts: 84
After their showing in Melbourne Honda look as far away as they did last year. I can't see any team wanting that setup.
Vet5
Posts: 225
Its a shame Honda are struggling, but at least they have tokens to spend. McLaren need to stop this Size-Zero philosophy and make the engine stronger rather than make it struggle.