Hexagon's Metrology Tech Powers Red Bull Ford Powertrains' 2026 F1 Engine Push
Event summary
- Hexagon's ultra-high accuracy measurement technologies enabled Red Bull Ford Powertrains to develop its first-ever F1 powertrain for the 2026 season.
- The powertrain, a 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, meets sub-micron tolerances required by new 2026 F1 regulations for smaller, lighter, and more agile cars.
- Hexagon's technologies, including Leitz PMM-C CMMs and Leica Absolute Scanner AS1, supported the entire R&D and production process over four years.
- The RB22, featuring the new powertrain, will debut at the Australian Grand Prix on March 6-8, 2026.
The big picture
Hexagon's long-standing partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing has extended to Red Bull Ford Powertrains, underscoring the critical role of precision engineering in F1's evolving regulatory landscape. The 2026 season introduces significant changes to chassis and engine designs, emphasizing agility, sustainability, and electrical energy reliance. Hexagon's technologies are instrumental in meeting these new demands, ensuring that Red Bull Ford Powertrains can push the limits of performance and innovation.
What we're watching
- Performance Validation
- How the DM-01 powertrain will perform on track against competitors' units under the new 2026 regulations.
- Cost Cap Compliance
- Whether Red Bull Ford Powertrains can maintain performance while adhering to the new engine cost cap.
- Technological Edge
- The pace at which Hexagon's metrology technologies can adapt to future F1 rule changes and performance demands.
Related topics