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Mercedes’ hybrid power unit reign ends: F1’s astonishing era of dominance celebrated in style

Miguel Cunha by Miguel Cunha
December 18, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
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Mercedes’ hybrid power unit reign ends: F1’s astonishing era of dominance celebrated in style

The End of an Era: Mercedes’ Unrivaled Dominance in Hybrid Formula 1 Power Units

As the curtain falls on the hybrid era of Formula 1, we witness the end of a remarkable saga that has seen Mercedes dominate the world of motorsport since 2014. This farewell marks not just the conclusion of a regulatory era but the end of a legacy that has redefined excellence in automotive engineering and competitive racing. Buckle up as we delve into the astonishing numbers and milestones that showcase Mercedes’ unparalleled prowess in hybrid technology.

The Genesis of a Powerhouse (2010-2013)

The seeds of Mercedes’ dominance were sown well before the lights went out for the first race of 2014. Back in 2010, discussions about the impending changes to the rules began, paving the way for what would become a revolutionary leap in F1 technology. When the V6 hybrid regulations were officially introduced in mid-2011, Mercedes-Benz took a bold and integrated approach, ensuring that every ounce of performance was maximized across the car’s components.

Andy Cowell emerged as the mastermind behind this ambitious project when he took the reins as Managing Director of Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains (HPP) in January 2013. Cowell described the challenge of developing the hybrid unit as “often more difficult than creating the KERS or V8 engines.” The dual focus on both performance and reliability culminated in the birth of the most powerful and enduring power unit on the grid by 2014.

The Game-Changer: PU106A Hybrid

One of the most groundbreaking innovations introduced by Mercedes was the split-turbo design. Unlike conventional setups that have the turbine and compressor side by side, the Mercedes configuration separated them, enhancing efficiency and reducing turbo lag. This clever engineering leap resulted in a staggering thermal efficiency of 44%, compared to the 29% of previous V8 engines, and an output of 630 kW (840 hp) at 15,000 rpm.

The debut of the Mercedes F1 W05 Hybrid at the Australian Grand Prix in 2014 was nothing short of spectacular, with Nico Rosberg clinching victory by an astonishing 27 seconds. That season, the team racked up 16 wins out of 19 races, solidifying their status as the dominant force in F1.

Unyielding Supremacy (2015-2021)

The momentum didn’t stop there. By 2016, thermal efficiency surpassed 47%, with power levels exceeding 900 hp while using half the fuel of previous models. In 2017, Mercedes became the first to achieve over 50% thermal efficiency in a power unit during testing. The years from 2019 to 2021 saw fierce competition from Ferrari and Red Bull, leading to some reliability issues, yet Mercedes still clinched multiple championships.

However, the tides began to turn with the advent of new regulations that brought forth the notorious “porpoising” phenomenon in 2022, wreaking havoc on engine reliability due to extreme vibrations. Despite only recording two mechanical retirements that year, it was clear the team was losing its competitive edge, culminating in a winless season in 2023—a stark contrast to their previous dominance.

A New Chapter: McLaren’s Revival

As the hybrid era wanes, the resurgence of McLaren powered by the Mercedes engine in 2024 and 2025 reignited the spark of victory. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri led the charge, securing 14 victories combined and reminding the world that the engineering brilliance of Brixworth remains a benchmark in F1 racing.

The Astonishing Statistics of Mercedes Power Units

The numbers tell a story of dominance: – Lewis Hamilton: 83 wins (59.3% of total) – Nico Rosberg: 20 wins (14.3%) – Lando Norris: 11 wins (7.9%) – Valtteri Bottas: 10 wins (7.1%) – Oscar Piastri: 9 wins (6.4%)

In total, Mercedes-AMG Petronas celebrated 118 victories throughout the hybrid era, with an impressive 51 wins out of 59 races during their golden years between 2014 and 2016.

A Grand Farewell to an Iconic Era

On December 16, 2025, the Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team commemorated the end of the turbo-hybrid engine era at their Brixworth facility. The event was a celebration of their monumental achievements: over 250 Grands Prix, 140 victories, and nearly 400 podium finishes. As Fred Vesti took the wheel of iconic models from the W05 to the W16, the atmosphere was a poignant mix of nostalgia and pride.

The hybrid units, though often criticized for their complexity and muted sound, represented a significant technical challenge, and Mercedes emerged as the unequivocal leader. With 10 Constructors’ Championships and 8 Drivers’ Championships under their belt, their legacy is etched in the annals of F1 history.

As we stand on the brink of a new regulatory landscape in 2026, the story of Mercedes’ hybrid dominance is not just a tale of victories but a testament to engineering excellence and relentless pursuit of innovation. The hybrid era may be closing, but the impact of Mercedes will resonate for generations to come.

Tags: 1958-formula-1-season2025-football-season2025-mclaren-f1-championshipLando NorrisLewis HamiltonNico Rosberg
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