Sauber Technical Director James Key has expressed that the team has pursued “bold” and “thrilling” paths with its 2024 Formula 1 vehicle in an effort to climb up the rankings. After taking advantage of the regulation reset in 2022 and returning to a competitive midfield position, Sauber dropped to ninth place in the Constructors’ standings last season. The team attributed this decline to the limitations discovered with its previous car concept, resulting in only 16 points in its final year associated with Alfa Romeo.
Former McLaren Technical Director James Key, who previously worked for Sauber from 2010 to 2012, has overseen the team’s revamped design philosophy for the C44. Since joining in September, the British engineer has confirmed that Sauber’s latest model has minimal components carried over from its problematic predecessor. While Sauber chose to prioritize renovations to the rear end of the car, Key has emphasized the team’s focus on overhauling the front suspension during the winter.
“The car is essentially brand new, with a few areas at the rear of the car that remain unchanged,” Key stated prior to the launch of the 2024 car, which will compete under the name ‘Stake F1 Team’. “The team had already taken a bold direction before my arrival: there have been numerous mechanical changes, some of which are not visible, but others are quite noticeable. The front suspension is completely new, which was a challenging and ambitious project for a team of our size. There have also been significant aerodynamic changes, as expected since this is the primary area of development. Overall, the car will have a significantly different appearance compared to last year’s model. We have taken many new and exciting approaches, all of which show great potential, so we are eager to see them in action on the track.”
Although he suspects there is still potential for growth within this set of regulations, Key is cautious that certain teams may begin to think creatively and introduce technical innovations.
When asked to elaborate on the modifications made to their 2024 car, Key added: “Since 2022, when these regulations were implemented, the cars have progressed rapidly, and there are numerous areas of the car with significant potential.
“While these trends will likely continue into the third year, there may be individuals who deviate from the norm, and we must be vigilant.
“Some of these areas have shown considerable progress over the past couple of years, and I am confident that this year will be no different.
“For instance, our new car features a distinct front suspension design, as we have transitioned to a pull-rod front suspension, a choice driven by aerodynamics rather than mechanical factors. This project holds great importance in ensuring its intended functionality.”
With the underside of the car’s floor contributing up to 60% of the downforce on current ground effect cars, Key has unveiled the team’s revamped solution in this particular area for the upcoming year.
“Undoubtedly, aerodynamics plays a dominant role, and many of the visible components serve the purpose of generating more efficient downforce. The bodywork is a major battleground in these cars, surpassing the previous generation,” he explained.
“We can observe emerging trends in that regard, and the path we have chosen is much more radical compared to last year. It signifies a new direction for the team, aligning with the apparent trends and potentially a step forward. I am certain that some of our competitors have pursued similar approaches, which will be intriguing to witness.
“Naturally, the majority of the downforce is generated beneath the car, specifically through the floor. We have adopted a distinct approach, a fresh concept, in this area, and it appears to be a highly effective solution at present. All of these elements are novel, with much more beneath the surface.”