Honda plans Super Formula test for troubled F1 engine

Honda is weighing up a plan to install its much-criticised 2015 Formula One engine into a Super Formula car, according to reports from Autosprint. The proposed test, which would take place at Suzuka, is seen as an attempt by the Japanese manufacturer to address mounting criticism over its current F1 partnership with McLaren.

The move follows a bruising Italian Grand Prix weekend, where Honda’s F1 chief Yasuhisa Arai faced pointed questions about the pace and reliability of the turbo V6 power unit. McLaren-Honda’s struggles have become increasingly public, with Fernando Alonso’s top speed of 338kph at Monza falling 16kph short of the leading Mercedes and only marginally ahead of GP2 machinery. The gulf in performance has fuelled speculation about whether Honda’s engine or McLaren’s chassis is more at fault for the team’s disappointing 2015 campaign.

Testing the F1 engine outside Formula One

Super Formula, Japan’s top-level single-seater series, currently uses 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engines supplied by Honda and Toyota. Autosprint reports that Honda believes it is technically feasible to install its F1 turbo V6 into one of these chassis. The test would likely be conducted in partnership with established teams such as Mugen or Nakajima, both of which have close ties to Honda.

If the project goes ahead, it could provide clear data on the F1 engine’s performance in a different aerodynamic and chassis environment. This would help determine whether the engine is solely to blame for McLaren’s lack of pace or if the MP4-30 chassis is also a limiting factor. The outcome could influence how Honda and McLaren approach ongoing development and public communication about their partnership.