P1racenews AI automatic summary:
What Mercedes’ W14 errors tell us about its 2024 F1 car changes
For the upcoming season, Mercedes has made significant changes to its Formula 1 car, including a new chassis, front and rear suspension, and gearbox, as well as improving its aerodynamics and sidepods. The most important changes, however, are hidden and focused on the underfloor, aero platform concept, and ride height. Mercedes had issues with its previous ground effect cars due to problems with ride height, which affected the car’s downforce. Despite some recovery in the 2022 season, the raising of the floor edges by 15mm last year presented a critical decision for Mercedes: whether to cash in on the 15mm and operate in a smaller window or continue seeking downforce higher up. Mercedes chose the conservative approach but now admits it was too cautious, and they would have been better off taking the risk. With stable regulations in 2024, Mercedes will aim for an optimal aero setup that balances ride height and downforce.
