Mercedes have announced that their 2025 Formula 1 car, the W16, will incorporate innovative sustainable carbon fibre composites, marking a first for the sport.
Carbon fibre composites constitute approximately 75% of the materials used in the team’s race cars, playing a crucial role in both performance and safety. Advances in this area present an opportunity to lower the environmental impact of the vehicle while maintaining technical and competitive standards.
Carbon fibre composites are composed primarily of two key elements: fibres (around 60%) and a resin system (about 40%). To create a more sustainable composite, both components must be adapted.
Mercedes, in collaboration with its supply chain, is advancing two projects to be introduced later this year—one focused on improving the resin system and the other on developing more sustainable carbon fibres. Each composite component involves multiple suppliers and undergoes extensive laboratory testing to meet rigorous performance and safety criteria.
The team has confirmed that the new materials will be developed in compliance with FIA regulations, aiming to demonstrate that sustainable carbon fibre composites can meet the same stringent technical demands as conventional materials.
Mercedes’ work on sustainable carbon fibre technology forms part of a broader effort to integrate environmentally friendly solutions into high-performance engineering. The team believes these innovations could have wider applications beyond Formula 1, including in the aviation, aerospace, and technical fabric industries.
Team Principal Toto Wolff emphasised the role of innovation in advancing sustainable solutions, stating that progress comes from combining performance and technological development. Head of Sustainability Alice Ashpitel highlighted the team’s commitment to leading sustainability efforts within motorsport and exploring the practical applications of these materials throughout the season.
