Red Bull weighs emergency engine options to stay on 2016 F1 grid
Red Bull is designing four versions of its 2016 car as it races to secure a power unit deal, with time running out for a solution before pre-season testing.
Red Bull Racing is working on a contingency plan to remain in Formula One for 2016, as the team faces a looming deadline to secure a power unit supply. With no confirmed engine partner, Red Bull has instructed its technical team to design four versions of the RB12 chassis to accommodate a range of possible engines.
Team principal Christian Horner said the squad is at the limit of what is possible to be ready for the first pre-season test, given the uncertainty over which power unit will be fitted. He echoed owner Dietrich Mateschitz in warning that the crisis must be resolved within weeks for Red Bull to make the grid on time.
Engine supply talks reach stalemate
Red Bull has held discussions with Mercedes, Ferrari and Honda about a supply deal, and has not ruled out patching up relations with Renault despite a public breakdown earlier in the year. Horner indicated that any renewed Renault deal would have to be on different terms than before.
The team has also shown interest in the FIA and Bernie Ecclestone's proposal for a new 2.2-litre twin-turbo customer engine, but this would not be available before 2017. With no immediate alternative, Red Bull is pressing on with parallel designs to keep all options alive.
Honda and Renault remain possible, but uncertain
Honda has confirmed talks with Red Bull, but McLaren retains veto power as the official works team. Honda F1 chief Yasuhisa Arai said discussions are ongoing but stressed McLaren's status would not change. Some insiders suggest Red Bull could run unbranded Renault engines independently, but no agreement has been reached.
- Red Bull is not considering a break from F1 in 2016.
- A decision is needed within weeks to meet car build deadlines.
- Alternative engine supply solutions may require a new relationship structure.
As the 2016 season approaches, Red Bull's future on the grid depends on resolving its engine impasse. The team is continuing preparations but concedes that time is almost up to find a workable solution.
