Ford Performance is deepening its involvement in the development of Red Bull's Formula 1 power unit for the 2026 season, contributing more than initially planned.
The partnership originally focused on electrical components, including the battery, motor, and software. This scope has expanded significantly, and Ford Performance now includes the internal combustion engine (ICE) in its development mandate.
Mark Rushbrook, head of Ford Performance, explained the strategic shift. He noted the change reflects Ford’s evolving road car plans, which will continue to feature ICE and hybrid vehicles alongside fully electric models.
Ford sees this as an opportunity to participate in the combustion engine's development. The company hopes to apply the knowledge gained from F1 technology directly to its future consumer vehicles.