Fernando Alonso will race with a brand new car at the Bahrain Grand Prix, including a new power unit, after Honda were unable to salvage any part of the unit following the Spaniard’s high-speed accident at the last race in Australia.
The Japanese supplier took his power unit away for a thorough inspection after the race to see if any part could be reused, however following that analysis, Honda admitted it was too badly damaged to salvage.
“We have recovered the power unit from Fernando’s car used in Melbourne,” explained Honda’s Yusuke Hasegawa.
“After initial investigations, we are massively disappointed that the ICE and most of the surrounding parts have been heavily damaged, as the impact from the accident was just too great. We will be replacing the complete power unit in Bahrain.”
Meanwhile McLaren racing director Eric Boullier hailed the team effort in getting a brand new chassis prepared for the race.
“First of all, I was very happy to see Fernando walk away after such a heart-stopping incident,” he said. “In addition, I’d like to say a huge thank you to all our McLaren and Honda employees for the incredible efforts going on behind the scenes to get the spare chassis built and ready to race next weekend.
“It’s a truly remarkable achievement in between flyaway races, and a testament to our incredibly strong teamwork.”
McLaren also confirmed that the Spaniard’s composite seat cracked in the crash and will therefore be replaced as well.