Mercedes, on a desperate quest to get back to winning ways, introduced 2024 season challenger W15 earlier this month. The sleek livery with traces of iconic silver paint left the fans mesmerized. However, it all boiled down to the performance of the car at a pre-season testing run in Bahrain.
On day 1, George Russell took the car for a spin on the Bahrain circuit, followed by Lewis Hamilton on day 2. Having said that, the W15 looked much different during the testing run compared to its launch day. Moreover, the fresh images coming out of the paddock reveal an interesting element related to the front suspension, which could work wonders for Mercedes if used in the right direction.
Mercedes Leaves Room For Adjustment In W15’s Front Suspension
Mercedes means serious business this year. To address track-specific requirements this season, the team left enough room in W15’s front suspension to alter changes as and when deemed necessary. As per the pictures coming out of the paddock, the hatch on the side of W15’s chassis appears much bigger than what we normally see on F1 cars. But the Silver Arrows left the room for a reason. Apparently, the larger hatch allows the team enough room to adjust different wishbone arrangements depending on the track requirements. It will also result in different aerodynamic responses. For example, during the pre-season test run, the Brackley-based team arranged the rear leg of the upper wishbone in the higher mounting position.
But on days 2 and 3, the positioning was significantly lowered, and both arms of the wishbone were placed in close proximity to one another. This arrangement becomes more effective as a combined aerodynamic surface. However, one con of the innovation is the extra need for structural integrity around two mounting positions. That could only add to the engineer’s work during the tight schedules of the race weekends. Regardless, hopefully, Mercedes thought their way through with this new adjustment. If the innovation works, the team can generate consistent performances irrespective of track layout. Also, determining ideal set-ups will be much easier due to increased adaptability and flexibility. That being said, with a relentless focus on innovation and performance, the team continues to fight to reclaim excellence in the sport they once dominated.
W15 Still Lacks Required Straight Line Pace
Mercedes did a commendable job this winter in addressing their driver’s specific complaints about the machinery. The new W15’s seating position was pushed back, with the rear being more predictable and stable on the corners. These two things would ease Lewis Hamilton’s pain this coming season. However, despite notable adjustments, the team is not there yet.
As per Lewis Hamilton, W15 lacks the desired pace to compete with Red Bull Racing. The straight-line pace and DR’s effectiveness are things that need improvement, per Hamilton. However, the British driver clarified that these shortcomings were expected at the pre-season test run. They are committed to improving before the first race weekend in Bahrain, which is scheduled for later this weekend.
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