Sustainability meets speed as the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team unveils a cutting-edge breakthrough at the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix: the first-ever use of bio-based carbon fibre composite material on a high-performance race car component.
The team’s #63 W16, which stormed to a second-place finish on the streets of Baku, featured rear brake duct wheel shields crafted with a revolutionary resin blend—30% derived from renewable sources. This marks a major milestone in the team’s journey toward sustainable innovation, proving that eco-conscious engineering can thrive under the extreme demands of Formula One racing.
“Formula One is the world’s fastest test lab,” said Toto Wolff, Team Principal & CEO. “This project reflects our commitment to sustainability and showcases how pioneering technologies developed on the grid can ripple across industries.”
Racing Toward Net Zero
Developed in collaboration with Syensqo, the bio-based resin replaces petroleum-derived components with materials sourced from bio-diesel by-products, introducing circularity into the design process. The application on the W16’s intricate aerodynamic surfaces demonstrate the material’s durability, precision, and potential for broader use across motorsport and beyond.
“We’re proud to power sustainable innovation in Formula One,” said Alice Ashpitel, Head of Sustainability. “This sets a new benchmark for performance-driven sustainability, without compromise.”
Innovation in Action
The successful integration of bio-based carbon fibre composites in race conditions is a first for the team, and a clear signal of its intent to meet its Net Zero target across all scopes by 2040. The project also highlights the growing role of advanced materials in shaping the future of high-performance engineering.
“Seeing our resin technology come to life on the W16 is a proud moment,” added Rodrigo Elizondo, President of Syensqo Composite Materials. “It’s proof that sustainability and elite performance can go hand in hand.”
As Formula One continues to evolve, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team is leading the charge—driving innovation that’s not just faster, but smarter and greener.