P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The F1 design clues from Williams’ maiden test
The Grove-based team decided to halt development on the 2023 car early to focus on improving performance for this season. Williams has transitioned to a push-rod rear suspension layout for the current car, following Mercedes’ switch this year. Along with the rear end components, Williams acquired the gearbox and rear suspension hardware from Mercedes, in addition to their power unit supply. The front of the car still features a push-rod layout, like Mercedes and Aston Martin.
The new FW46 is an evolution of its predecessor, with key changes including a wider and flatter nose design. The front wing has been refined with narrower non-moveable sections and wider moveable flaps. Williams has adopted an underbite arrangement at the front of the sidepods to enhance airflow around the car.
The floor edge of the car includes rolled-up edge wings and curled strakes for improved aerodynamic control. The rear wing now features a semi-detached tip section, a design choice embraced by many teams last season. Williams has also kept the upwashing swage line introduced at the Australian Grand Prix at the base of the rear wing endplate.
