Major manufacturers without their own engines: peculiarities and trends for 2026

12/31/2024 06:45 PM

The 2026 F1 season, in addition to technical innovations, will see several changes with the entry or return of manufacturers, teams, or engine suppliers. Well-known names in motorsport will be associated, in many cases, with a particular trend: major manufacturers competing without their own engines.

This is nothing new, as it also happens in everyday road vehicles. Several brands do not design their engines for production models, opting instead to have them produced and developed by others or simply purchased. In F1, between 2026 and 2027, something similar will occur, with major manufacturers using engines from other suppliers. It's a matter of cost and economic sustainability, but it still leaves a notable impact.

The return of Aston Martin to F1 nearly four years ago replicated the close collaboration with Mercedes-AMG seen in their supercars, such as the Vantage and DB11. This example, in its way, set a precedent. As a result, Alpine abandoned Renault engines (despite being part of the group since 1973), and General Motors opted to start as a “customer” team. These are truly unique partnerships.

New developments and major names

Regarding the Gaydon-based manufacturer, its relationship with Honda confirms the decision to continue purchasing engines, but this time as an “official” partner.

To summarize briefly, in 2026, Ford will return in collaboration with Red Bull Powertrains, and Audi will debut with Sauber. Aston Martin, after five seasons, will leave Mercedes-AMG power units, becoming Honda’s “official” team.

Meanwhile, the Stuttgart-based brand will support Alpine, which by then will effectively cease to be Renault’s sporting division. General Motors, debuting in F1 with the Cadillac brand, has already signed an agreement with Ferrari, with plans extending at least until 2027.

F1 is experiencing an excellent period, both economically and in terms of public interest. This is why such commercial operations, strongly symbolic and promotional, could gain even more traction in the future.

However, there is a risk that long-time fans might feel increasingly disoriented, with “stickered” engines and manufacturers merely lending their names.

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