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McLaren-Honda participated in a productive two-day test at the Hungaroring this week, which saw Stoffel Vandoorne and Lando Norris take driving duties. As the Honda power unit has continued to provide McLaren with unreliability and a lack of pace for a third consecutive year, the two parties took the opportunity to trial brand new engine parts that they hope will improve the project's fortunes.
Said trials gave Honda valuable information to analyse before the Belgian Grand Prix at the end of August - according to its principal engineer, Satoshi Nakamura, this is all thanks to the runs made by Norris in the MCL32, which greatly impressed everyone in the team.
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"The team fitted some new elements after the lunch break on day two which slightly delayed our return to the track," Nakamura said. "However, Lando still managed to complete 91 laps in his first outing behind the wheel of the MCL32. We were also able to collect precious data for further improvement of both performance and reliability, in readiness for a good start to the second half of the season.
"The team now goes into the summer break; a chance to take a breath and replenish the reserves after a tough first half of the year, before we gear up again for the remainder of the season. Having finished a positive race and test here in Hungary, we're also really looking forward to getting back on track in Spa-Francorchamps to show competitive pace there."
Mason Hawker
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Replies (5)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
A pity the testing didnt occur on a more engine intense track, but I guess beggars aint choosers. Hope they managed to get good data.
Abd yes, Norris did a good job. Not bad times from someone so new to these cars.
boudy
Posts: 1,168
I believe that mcLaren will announce if they split from Honda after the break. Just do not think that they will switch engine suppliers. But if they do... redbull will run Honda next year
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Same, for better or worse, I think they are stuck with Honda. And I agree: it looks like Toro Rosso will pick up Hondas, and if that works out, and McLaren leaves, then Red Bull will do the switch and become the new works Honda team. I dont think they will do the switch for 2018, but anything is possible for 2019.
Wolfgang
Posts: 313
Maybe but who is going to support McLaren in 2018??
Merc and Ferrari said they won´t..
I´m convinced McLaren stays with Honda..
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
They could maybe get a one year deal with one of the two if they gun for a 2017 spec unit. That way, they could have that potential one year break from Honda. Only real problems with that theory is that Merc isnt really fond of such deals, and I dont know if either McLaren or Ferrari want a partnership with one another.