McLaren-Honda runs Formula One car at Abu Dhabi

McLaren-Honda has begun testing its Formula One car. After the conclusion of the 2014 Formula One season, the renewed partnership between two of the most successful partners in F1 has begun. The McLaren-Honda team ran their interim test car, dubbed the MP4-29H/1X1 at the official testing session at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi. The test is intended to perform all systems checks, as well as installing the computer infrastructure and connections.

Anticipation is running high for the McLaren-Honda team, particularly after the hiring of two-time F1 Drivers Champion Fernando Alonso, hailed as one the best drivers on the F1 grid. McLaren and Honda had a successful collaboration in the 1980s and 1990s. Honda power won 71 Grand Prix, six consecutive constructor championships and five consecutive driver championships from 1986-1991. Honda has built a new power unit for the 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 engine regulation.

Eric Boullier, McLaren’s Racing Director said, “This test is an opportunity for us to build up that operational strength; to get McLaren and Honda working together under the same roof. We encountered a number of issues, including a lengthy check of electrical installations this morning, but it’s satisfying to see that we got the engine fired up, the car out of the garage, and some laps on the board.”