P1racenews AI automatic summary:
On the basis of the 2024 F1 pre-season test, Mercedes might finally have something it has been desperately chasing since the new ground effect era of F1 began two years ago
Mercedes seems to have made significant progress with its new W15 car in Bahrain testing, hinting at a potential breakthrough in performance after struggling behind Red Bull in the past two years.
The team has worked hard to address handling flaws from the previous car and the early feedback from drivers has been more positive.
Despite still being behind Red Bull in outright pace based on testing times, Mercedes is optimistic about the improvements made with the W15.
While acknowledging that there is still work to be done before the start of the race weekend, the general consensus in the paddock is that Mercedes has taken a step forward compared to last year.
Both the drivers and the team personnel are encouraged by the overall progress and performance of the new car, although they remain realistic about the need for further development and fine-tuning.
