imkreisfahren · Sebastian und Dave

Aston Martin in der Krise: Newey, Honda und ein Projekt am Limit

·18 min·1 clip

Aston Martin and Honda are experiencing their worst season start, even slower than McLaren-Honda's catastrophic years.

The episode opens by comparing Aston Martin's current struggles to the catastrophic McLaren-Honda years, noting they were the slowest team in Japan. Data from the first three races indicates the Honda engine lacks power, with a 20-30 km/h top speed deficit on straights in Suzuka, possibly due to throttled performance for reliability. The MGU-K energy recovery system failed entirely in Suzuka's first sector, forcing reliance on the combustion engine alone. Severe vibrations have caused driver health issues, with Fernando Alonso parking early in China due to numbness. Team leader Mike Craig emphasizes reliability as a priority, but the car also suffers from overweight and aerodynamic weaknesses. The FIA's ADUO system, introduced this season, allows underperforming engine manufacturers like Honda to apply for additional development opportunities, including more test stand time and budget. Engines are largely homologated and frozen, but ADUO can unlock upgrades to prevent long-term disadvantages. Performance checks via GPS data will determine if Honda qualifies for assistance after the first six races. Honda head Ken Watanabe faces a dilemma on whether to invest in the 2026 engine or focus on a complete redesign for 2027. Fernando Alonso references McLaren's 2023 upgrades as a role model for in-season improvement. The episode concludes by noting the high mountain Aston Martin must climb, with potential help from Adrian Newey's historical successes, and invites audience discussion on the team's future and Alonso's career.

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