British GP: McLaren opts for engine upgrade at Silverstone

London - Honda has brought an updated engine to the British Grand Prix.

McLaren-Honda driver Fernando Alonso said the improvements are related to the Japanese power unit's internal combustion engine, which is now Honda's focus for catching up with Mercedes, Ferrari and Renault.

Lacks outright pace

Alonso told Spanish reporters at Silverstone: "In electric power we are already on a level with the top manufacturers. 

"In the V6, we still lack quite a lot so I expect that we will achieve a good step in performance here mainly because of the engine." 

More: British GP 1st Practice 

The Spaniard added: "Theoretically we have a bit more power and that's always welcome. We'll see what happens on the track." 

A smiling @JensonButton walks into the garage. Time to hop into the #MP431. #BritishGP pic.twitter.com/iHO3KeFoBd

— McLaren (@McLarenF1) July 8, 2016