Honda implements second secret turbo upgrade for Aston Martin

Honda has implemented a second secret power unit upgrade for its Formula 1 partner, Aston Martin, utilizing its second Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunity (ADUO) joker. Although Honda previously indicated it would only use one upgrade this season, engineers decided to pursue further performance gains through calibration and hardware changes.

The upgrade focuses on an advanced turbocharger designed to improve drivability and reduce boost lag when exiting corners. The new component was first introduced on Lance Stroll’s car during the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid, followed by Fernando Alonso receiving the upgrade at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku.

Under FIA regulations, Honda, Ferrari, and Audi were granted two upgrade opportunities because their power units were identified as trailing the leading V6 engines by more than 4%. Honda Racing Corporation Trackside Manager Shintaro Orihara noted that while the mapping improvements are incremental, the team continues to seek small performance gains.