P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes’ customer teams are expected to start the new Formula 1 season with an upgraded power unit specification at the Australian Grand Prix after running alternative versions during pre-season testing.
Mercedes’ customer teams will debut an upgraded power unit specification at the Australian Grand Prix after using alternative versions in pre-season testing. McLaren, Alpine, and Williams didn’t run the latest Mercedes engine in winter due to reliability and new F1 regulations. 2026 brings a reset for power unit suppliers, with Mercedes supplying four teams, posing challenges. Testing focused on stability and data collection, while the newest M17E Performance power unit was evaluated. Manufacturing strain was reduced by limiting the newest spec to one team before the homologation deadline. The regulations mandate equality between works and customer teams, with identical operational settings and fuel/oil specifications. McLaren emphasized the importance of the right package for race one and praised the reliable performance during testing. The Mercedes-powered teams can expect a step forward in performance when the season kicks off in Melbourne.
