P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The team has announced who will be their main engine partner heading into the new 2026 power unit regulation era.
Williams has announced that they will continue to use Mercedes-Benz as their Power Unit supplier in Formula 1 starting from the 2026 season. This decision extends their existing partnership, which began in 2014 during the 1.6 litre V6 hybrid era. The new technical regulations set to be introduced in 2026 will require F1 power units to use 100% sustainable fuel and upgraded electrical systems for better performance. The new power unit will feature a single 350kW electric motor that is almost three times more powerful than the current MGU-K, reducing overall fuel consumption. Mercedes is one of six manufacturers committed to providing power units in 2026, including Ferrari, Alpine, Audi, Honda, and the partnership between Red Bull and Ford. Development of the new power unit has been ongoing since mid-2022 at Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth.