DRAWING BOARD
MERCEDES MAKES CHANGES TO THE FRONT…
In a bid to reignite its fortunes after a rough start to 2022, Mercedes introduced a new front wing that took a different approach to the new endplate regulations. As the new rules state that the wing elements must merge directly into the endplate, Mercedes has ensured that its new wing remains in conformity with the regulations, but has been able to sweep the attachment points forward, leaving an open cut at the rear of the endplate. This, Mercedes said in its pre-event technical notes, “improves front-wing efficiency by reducing the pressure difference between the top and bottom surfaces at the wing tip”, suggesting that it has been able to reduce the induced drag of the front wing. In having the cut-out in the endplate, it also potentially allows airflow to be pushed outwards, developing the outwash effect in the front wing that had become popular in the previous ruleset. This will in turn boost the performance of the other aerodynamic devices further down the car as it helps to tune down the amount of turbulence produced by the front tyres. Two little slots on the outer edge of the rear-wing flap will help to direct and guide that airflow outwards to where Mercedes needs it to be.