John N
Formula 1’s governing body the FIA has confirmed the updates teams have brought with them to the Australian Grand Prix. As part of F1’s new format for the 2022 season, teams have to declare any new updates they plan to race with at each Grand Prix on Friday and saturday.
The declared changes confirm that Mercedes has brought no new updates for the W13 in Melbourne, despite rumors that a new rear wing would be introduced at the third round of the year. Speaking ahead of the weekend, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said: “There won’t be a magic fix for the next race weekend, but we’re pushing to steadily bring gains over the upcoming races, to hopefully move us closer to the front of the pack. Until then, we need to maximize each opportunity and make the most of the package we have.” Mercedes is expected to phase in several innovations over the coming races, with an updated floor now expected to arrive at the next round in Imola.
In contrast, Ferrari and Red Bull have both introduced new parts in Australia.
Here is a full rundown of what each team has brought to the Australian Grand Prix.
Mercedes
No updated components were submitted for this event.
Red Bull
Front wing endplate. Compared with the launch wing, the aim is to maintain aerodynamic performance whilst reducing the volume and weight of the assembly. Will be evaluated at the Australian GP.
Ferrari
Diffuser. The changes to the diffuser volume (added packer, and therefore reduced expansion at the centerline) are intended to improve both rear downforce and stability around the lap.
McLaren
A new rear corner for improved aerodynamic performance on the rear of the car due to increased suction on lower winglets and improved flow control on the rear corner.
Alpine
Updated floor fences to increase the aerodynamic load and improve overall flow to the rear of the car. A new rear corner with an upgraded rear brake drum flick is aimed at improving local load around the rear wheel and diffuser.
AlphaTauri
No updated components were submitted for this event.
Aston Martin
Aston Martin has reverted to a previous rear wing with an increased incidence at the tips to increase rear wing load and drag.
Williams
Williams has brought the newest parts of any team, with an updated beam wing, floor edge, front wing, and front corner which will be introduced in Melbourne.
Alfa Romeo
No updated components were submitted for this event.
Haas
New diffuser with a different volume distribution. These changes are to better condition flow emanating from the skid surface and thus help better manage diffuser performance. Haas says it will also be running various measurement rakes in FP1 to further its understanding of flow structures around its car.
