P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Technical analyst Paolo Filisetti explains how Mercedes’ new W16 draws some inspiration from Sebastian Vettel-era Ferraris.
The Mercedes W16 features a unique combination of different car concepts, particularly evident in the design of the sidepods and air inlets. The team has introduced full-height vertical slits and reduced the inlets to horizontal slits to increase the undercut and guide air towards the rear of the car. This design change aims to enhance both aerodynamic performance and downforce load distribution. The focus on extreme development of the sidepods is attributed to the new strategic development director, Simone Resta, formerly of Ferrari. The innovative approach to the sidepod inlets is reminiscent of Resta’s designs for Ferrari in 2017 and 2018, which almost led Sebastian Vettel to a championship. The new Mercedes design also shows influences from Ferrari, especially in the front-wing profile and flap levels. Overall, Mercedes’ new design is focused on boosting overall performance rather than widening the performance window. The team is optimistic about the improved balance of the car and is committed to maximizing the development potential of the new concepts.
