McLaren does not plan to produce its own engines
Martin Whitmarsh, the head of the McLaren team, wanted to put an end to the rumors announcing the possible arrival of McLaren engines in F1 in 2014. Whitmarsh explained that the Woking team is not interested in a dual role as both constructor and engine supplier.
The contract between Mercedes-Benz and McLaren will come to an end in 2015, but by then, the F1 engine regulations will have evolved with the introduction of a 1.6L V6 Turbo starting in 2014. Several rumors have suggested a possible end to the McLaren/Mercedes partnership, with the possibility of McLaren being powered by Pure—information recently denied.
Another theory that has emerged is McLaren manufacturing its own engines – the Woking team would thus mimic Ferrari and Mercedes. However, Martin Whitmarsh, the team principal, stated that this option is not on the agenda as it is not something that interests the team.
« Formula 1 is a truly powerful environment for promoting a car brand. But we have no plans – in the short, medium, or long term – to produce our own engines, » Martin Whitmarsh stated during the launch of the MP4-27 on Wednesday.
« We have the utmost respect for what Ferrari has achieved, but we are going to do things our way. People speculate because of our road car program, but it makes no sense to us. »
Whitmarsh also insisted that the partnership with Mercedes was very fruitful and that McLaren was delighted with this collaboration with the German engine manufacturer. He also suggested that McLarens could be equipped with Mercedes engines for several more years, thus leaving the door open for a possible extension of the current contract.
“We have had a great partnership with Mercedes-Benz for 18 years, they probably make the best engine in F1. The motivation to change is very limited. We value this partnership and intend to continue it for many more years,” added Whitmarsh.
