F1 News
Honda believe its engine can now hit required mileage
- Bobby Vincent
Honda is hopeful its latest engine can last seven grands prix, which would prove to be a huge step in its bid to become a title-challenging power unit.
The Japanese engine supplier brought its second-spec engine to Baku, having already introduced a reliability-focused upgrade forward. The manufacturer reported "no problems" with the engine's reliability in the three races since the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
Honda technical director Toyoharu Tanabe told Motorsport.com that he believes the power unit is more than capable of now making it through seven consecutive races.
"I think, yes," Tanabe said about completing seven races. "I hope yes. We will see. It will always depend on how you use it. If you use it very easily you can achieve high mileage.
"If you push hard, it's shorter mileage. We're looking for a balance. We try to achieve the mileage, a range of 5,000km or 6,000km. It's not simple, it's very complicated."
Honda saw all four of its cars in the points for the first time this season at the Monaco Grand Prix. Max Verstappen was the highest out of the quartet, with the Dutchman finishing in P4 after his five-place penalty.
Pierre Gasly was one place behind his Red Bull team-mate. Daniil Kvyat and Alexander Albon then finished in P7 and P8 respectively in the two Toro Rosso cars.