Abishek D Praphullalumar
Mercedes is set to introduce a groundbreaking innovation in Formula 1 with the debut of sustainable carbon fiber composites on its W16 challenger for the 2025 season. The team aims to reduce its carbon footprint without compromising performance, as F1 pushes towards its 2030 carbon neutrality goal. Given that carbon fiber makes up around 75% of an F1 car, this shift marks a significant step toward sustainability.
The introduction of these sustainable composites aligns with F1’s upcoming 2026 regulations, which mandate a 50/50 power split between electric and internal combustion engines running on biofuels. Mercedes is working closely with partners like INEOS Nitriles, Toray, Syensqo, and Sigmatex to ensure the material meets FIA standards.
As black carbon fiber has become more visible in recent years due to teams reducing paint to save weight, Mercedes’ new approach could influence future car designs. The team plans to demonstrate that sustainable composites can perform just as well as traditional materials while benefiting the environment.
