American automotive manufacturer Ford has revealed it has taken on increased involvement with the Red Bull project ahead of their return to F1 next year.
Ford announced in early 2023 that it would link up with Red Bull in 2026 and assist it with the construction of its power unit.
The engines for next year will undergo a significant change, as will the aerodynamic rules.
Ford's decision to return to F1 was rooted in the development of the power unit's battery, which will have significantly more importance in 2026.
"We wanted to learn about electrification: battery cell chemistry, motors, inverters, calibration, control, and how everything interacts with the combustion engine,” Ford global director Mark Rushbrook told Motorsport aktuell.
“We wanted to learn about optimising fuel efficiency.”
Red Bull is undergoing a significant period of change, as aside from building its own engine, it has seen several key personnel changes following the exits of figures such as Christian Horner, Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley.
As the 2026 season approaches, Ford's involvement in the project has now significantly increased, with Rusbrook suggesting Ford's input goes beyond just the power unit.
"Initially, we weren't really interested in working on the combustion engine, but now we're doing it because we obviously still have a lot to learn in this area.
“We're primarily helping with the production of parts. So now we're working on almost the entire car - and also on the operational side."
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