Mercedes has formally bid farewell to the current engine formula. The German racing team was the most successful team of the hybrid era; between 2014 and 2025, the Silberpfeile won more than half of all Grand Prix and secured eight consecutive constructors’ titles. All power units gathered at the engine factory in Brixworth for an official farewell. However, according to Toto Wolff, ‘the real hybrid era’ is only just about to begin.
Despite the sporting decline with the introduction of the so-called ground effect cars, Mercedes can look back with satisfaction on the past twelve years. Particularly in the early phase of the hybrid era, the team was incredibly dominant. Out of the 252 races, 140 were won by a Mercedes, whether in the hands of Lewis Hamilton, Nico Rosberg, Valtteri Bottas, or George Russell. In total, the team finished on the podium 387 times and won eight constructors’ titles. This glorious period was festively concluded in Brixworth.
On the premises, test and reserve driver Frederik Vesti got the chance to get behind the wheel of both the W05 from 2014 and the W16 from 2025. He drove several demo runs and treated his colleagues to a number of donuts. In addition, all hybrid V6 engines that Mercedes has built over the years were displayed side by side. Hywel Thomas, director of the engine program, reacted visibly proud: “There are now many people working here who were not here at the time of this first engine,” he pointed to the original block. “Together we have made an incredible journey. The high expectations kept us sharp; we were not satisfied with reasonable performances, but always strived for greatness.”
Toto Wolff: ‘New Regulations are Fascinating’
Thomas is now looking forward to the upcoming season and the opportunities that the new engine formula offers. “If you ask your engineers what they want most, they all say: ‘A blank canvas, the chance to create something completely new’,” he explained. “That opportunity is now here. Everyone is looking forward to this, especially now that it’s almost showtime.”
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff also looks ahead to the new era. “We have been extremely successful for many years; we have won eight constructors’ titles,” he added. “This was followed by some tough seasons, but this chapter is now closed. We cherish many beautiful memories, but at the same time, the real hybrid era is now beginning. Soon, 50 percent of the power will come from electric drive. I have already seen the car in the simulator, it’s going to be fascinating,” Wolff grinned promisingly.
