Honda says McLaren chassis also to blame for 2015 F1 woes
Honda's F1 boss points to McLaren's mechanical and aerodynamic weaknesses, arguing engine problems are not the team's only obstacle in a difficult 2015 season.
Honda has defended its role in McLaren’s troubled 2015 Formula One campaign, insisting the team’s lack of pace is not solely down to the Japanese power unit. With the MP4-30 continuing to lag behind rivals, Honda F1 chief Yasuhisa Arai said the car’s chassis is also a limiting factor.
Arai pointed to GPS data showing McLaren’s car trails Red Bull’s in mechanical and aerodynamic grip. He said there is a clear difference between the two teams, highlighting that the MP4-30’s weaknesses extend beyond the Honda engine. The public statement comes as criticism has mounted over Honda’s performance since its return to F1 with McLaren this year.
McLaren’s management has acknowledged the car’s shortcomings. Team principal Eric Boullier described the chassis as improved over 2014 but far from the best on the grid. He said the MP4-30 suffers from excessive drag, which further hampers straight-line speed. Boullier’s comments support Honda’s position that the team’s issues are not confined to the power unit alone.
Drivers highlight multiple weaknesses
Fernando Alonso has said that both power and grip are lacking, underlining the scale of the challenge facing McLaren-Honda. The team continues to work on improving performance in all areas, but progress has been slow. Jenson Button has also struggled to make an impact with the car’s current package.
McLaren-Honda’s uphill task
The partnership’s underperformance has led to mounting pressure on both Honda and McLaren’s leadership. As the season continues, both sides are under scrutiny from fans, sponsors and the paddock. Internal efforts to address both the engine and chassis are ongoing, but neither party expects a quick turnaround.
For more on McLaren’s 2015 developments, see/mclarens-arai-boullier-asked-if-its-time-to-go.
