Max Verstappen Impressed by HondaJet Elite II in New Video

Max Verstappen recently featured in a Honda Global video, touring the new HondaJet Elite II in Italy. The four-time champion, who frequently travels by private jet for the Formula 1 circus, expressed his admiration for the jet's design, aerodynamics, cockpit, and cabin, admitting he could "get used to this."

Why it matters:

Max Verstappen's recent endorsement of the HondaJet Elite II, despite Honda's impending departure from Red Bull, highlights the premium quality and advanced engineering of Honda's aviation division. While it's a promotional video, it subtly showcases Honda's technological prowess across different sectors, even as their F1 partnership with Red Bull concludes. For Verstappen, who recently upgraded his own private jet, this experience offers a glimpse into cutting-edge light business aviation.

The Details:

• Verstappen, joined by captain Robin Balen, discussed the jet's unique over-the-wing engine mounts. This design choice maximizes cabin space and minimizes engine vibrations inside the plane, a significant improvement over traditional setups.
• Engine Power: Balen informed Verstappen that the jet's engines produce similar horsepower to a Formula 1 engine during take-off. Verstappen, known for his appreciation of engineering, noted the distinct mount design and the "bullet-like" nose of the aircraft.
• Advanced Cockpit: Inside the cockpit, Verstappen was impressed by the minimalist design and advanced technology, observing "Fewer buttons… it’s really advanced, isn’t it? It’s really cool."
• Personal Jet Upgrade: Verstappen recently upgraded his personal private jet from a Dassault Falcon 900EX to a Dassault Falcon 8X (registration PH-UTL). He reportedly spent close to $58 million on the new aircraft, though this figure is unconfirmed. His previous jet was listed for sale in March after he purchased it from Sir Richard Branson in 2020.
• Performance Comparison: The HondaJet Elite II is a light business jet with a maximum cruise speed of approximately 485 mph and a range of 1547 nautical miles. In contrast, Verstappen's new Dassault Falcon 8X boasts a range exceeding 10,000 nautical miles and a top speed of about 592 mph.

Between the lines:

While Verstappen's video tour is promotional for Honda's aviation arm, it's a timely reminder of Honda's diverse engineering capabilities. The F1 partnership between Honda and Red Bull will conclude at the end of the season, with Honda moving to Aston Martin for the 2026 power unit regulations. Red Bull, meanwhile, will utilize Red Bull Powertrains hardware developed in collaboration with Ford.

What's next:

Verstappen's continued association with Honda for such promotional activities could be an effort to maximize their remaining partnership before the split. Fans might speculate if this video hints at any future, non-F1 collaborations or simply serves as a final, high-profile send-off for their successful F1 era. Given Honda's shift to Aston Martin, opportunities for Verstappen to 'take the plane for a spin' through F1 connections will soon diminish.