Is 2024 the year Mercedes turns its fortunes around and returns to its winning ways before the ground effect regulations? James Allison, the technical director, is back in charge, bringing stability and getting the best out of the team. However, it’s important to identify and fix the problems that have plagued Mercedes.
Mercedes’ struggle can be attributed to prioritizing peak downforce over driver-friendly downforce. This approach leads to inconsistent performance and difficult race weekends. To address this, Mercedes has made changes based on what we can observe. Lewis Hamilton’s request for a different cockpit position has been granted, with the driver’s seating position moved rearwards by 5-10 centimeters. This adjustment improves Hamilton’s ability to feel the grip level and consistency of the rear axle, preventing snappy rear ends and tire degradation.
Examining the new car’s front wing, we can see noticeable differences. The inboard end of the flap assembly has a more streamlined design, with the removal of steps in the profiles. Real-life images of the car at Silverstone confirm these changes. The front wing regulations highlight the sections that apply to Mercedes’ modifications.
The introduction of a round section with a slot gap to the third element allows for cleaner airflow to the front of the chassis. This change is achieved by shortening the nose, separating it from the front wing’s forward element. The slot gap facilitates airflow to the underside of the nose and the central section of the underfloor’s leading edge.
Mercedes has retained its pushrod-operated inboard torsion spring system and anti-dive package for the top wishbone legs. However, there may be a slight difference in the mounting positions of the rear and forward legs, providing more anti-dive to the system. This has been a visual distinction between Mercedes and Red Bull, but Mercedes has made progress toward Red Bull’s design without fully committing.
The radiator duct inlet and exit are crucial for managing airflow and cooling. Mercedes has aimed to match the power unit’s cooling requirements while minimizing negative effects on downforce levels and consistency. The inlet system has undergone significant changes, allowing more airflow through the sidepod undercut. This improvement enhances downforce characteristics and consistency at different speeds.
The sidepod’s top surface profile remains similar to the previous year’s version. It directs higher levels of mass airflow to the side exit vanes, optimizing airflow for the diffuser and allowing it to work more effectively.
The rear suspension has undergone significant changes, transitioning to a pushrod system and incorporating anti-lift geometry. The forward leg of the lower wishbone is positioned higher, creating a shallow angle between the pushrod and wishbone. This design choice likely serves a purpose beyond convenience.
Overall, Mercedes has made improvements to its car for 2024, with a focus on enhancing the complementary relationship between the overbody and underbody airflow structures. The team aims to perform at a level that will make Lewis Hamilton regret his decision to join Ferrari.
According to the Source the-race.com