P1racenews AI automatic summary:
How Mercedes looks to have resolved one of Hamilton’s bugbears with its F1 car
Hamilton expressed dissatisfaction with the seating position in the 2023 Mercedes W14, noting that it made him feel like he was sitting on the front wheels, affecting his driving confidence. Mercedes responded by moving the cockpit back relative to the front wheels in the new W15 F1 car, a change of up to 100mm that required a redesign of various components. The redesign was facilitated by transitioning from the zeropod design to a downwash style solution, allowing for adjustments to the chassis, fuel tank, and gearbox. Additionally, the switch to push-rod rear suspension and relocation of the upper SIS have improved the handling of the car. Technical director James Allison suggested that Hamilton’s complaints were more related to the car’s overall performance issues rather than just the seating position.
