Mercedes has revealed the redesigned W15 car model in hopes of returning to their winning ways in Formula 1 for the 2024 season. The German team had an impressive run, winning eight consecutive Constructors’ Championships from 2014 to 2021. However, they have struggled in recent years due to changes in aero regulations. Despite finishing in second place last season, Mercedes experienced their first winless campaign since 2011. In an effort to close the gap with Red Bull, the engineering team behind the 2024 challenger has made significant changes to every component of the car. Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff expressed optimism, stating that the W15 “feels like a car for the first time in two years” based on simulator feedback. The Technical Director overseeing the revamped car is James Allison, who took over from Mike Elliott. Wolff, who recently signed a long-term contract extension, will continue to lead the team. Lewis Hamilton, who has achieved great success with Mercedes, will drive the W15 for the upcoming season alongside his teammate George Russell. Wolff acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed determination and ambition to fight at the front of the grid. He emphasized the team’s progress and their willingness to learn from past setbacks, stating that they will continue to push forward despite any obstacles they may face.
Mercedes’ most recent color scheme combines the black utilized on the previous season’s vehicle with silver on the front area, enhanced by its turquoise Petronas branded stripe.
Today, Mercedes will conduct a preliminary test of its new W15 at the Silverstone circuit, while McLaren will also run its MCL38 car for the first time on a different setup.
“Performance was always our primary focus with the black design from last year,” Wolff clarified. “Weight plays a crucial role in the current generation of cars.
“We were aware that, when the opportunity arose, we would reintroduce the Mercedes silver alongside the black, which has become a fundamental aspect of our team’s identity.
“The design truly represents our team, with the distinctive colors of INEOS and PETRONAS providing significant highlights.”
According to the Source motorsportweek.com