Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS has officially revealed its W17, designed for the 2026 Formula 1 rules reset. The car is smaller, lighter, and focused on active aerodynamics with a 50/50 hybrid power split. It's Mercedes' first step into the new era of F1, with the aim of reclaiming the track after major changes to the chassis, power unit, and fuel regulations.
The W17 features an evolved black-and-silver livery with a sweeping Petronas green flow line from nose to tail. Branding is enhanced with AMG-inspired rhombus graphics and starfield engine cover, while new Microsoft logos on the airbox and front wing reflect the multi-year partnership. The collaboration goes beyond just paint—it combines team simulations, race strategy modeling, and trackside data with Azure cloud and enterprise AI.
On track, Mercedes' plans are aggressive. George Russell and Kimi Antonelli tested nearly 200km on a wet Silverstone filming day, in preparation for a closed-door shakedown in Barcelona and two tests in Bahrain before the Australian Grand Prix. The team aims to validate active aero systems and hybrid power before the season formally begins.
The W17 is shorter, narrower, and lighter than previous models. It focuses on moveable front and rear wings and advanced sustainable fuels. With this setup, Mercedes will achieve a balanced combination of electric and combustion power, a major step for the future of F1 hybrid technology.
After four years without a title, Mercedes is counting on its historic record in rule resets, Brixworth power-unit expertise, and new Microsoft-backed data stack. The goal: not just to keep up with F1's changing landscape, but to lead the new era through innovation, technology, and strategy.
