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Mercedes has introduced a significant set of updates to its W15 Formula 1 car in preparation for the Imola Grand Prix. These enhancements include revised floor and brake ducts, along with a newly designed rear and beam wing, aimed at boosting overall performance on the track.
One of the standout changes is the comprehensive overhaul of the rear wing’s tip section. For the 2024 season, Mercedes had already adopted a semi-detached rear wing layout. The latest version, showcased in the Imola pitlane, pushes this design further. The tip section now sits elevated above the endplate, thanks to a small bracket that separates it from the lower element. Moreover, the tip section extends further down over the rolled endplate and mainplane junction, marking a notable shift in the design approach.
These modifications are paired with significant changes to the rear endplate cutout, where a larger portion has been removed from the rear upper quarter. This adjustment aims to reduce drag at the wing’s tip, allowing the designers to flatten the rear part of the tip section. The result is a wider span element that works more effectively with the upper flap, generating increased downforce across the wing’s entire span. This change is expected to enhance performance, especially when the Drag Reduction System (DRS) is activated.
In addition to the rear wing, Mercedes has introduced a new beam wing layout for this weekend. The team has opted for a bi-plane arrangement, combining a traditional lower element with an upper element that twists across its span. This configuration is designed to generate downforce in the central section while also ensuring it integrates smoothly with the endplate.
Mercedes has also made alterations to the forward portion of the car’s floor. These updates are intended to work in tandem with the edge wing modifications introduced at the Miami Grand Prix. The leading edge of the floor, the tunnel entrances, and the shape and position of the floor fences have all been refined. These changes aim to improve airflow through these components, enhancing the effectiveness of the underfloor and diffuser.
These updates reflect Mercedes’ continuous effort to refine their W15 car, pushing the boundaries of design and technology to stay competitive in the fast-paced world of Formula 1 racing. As the team implements these changes, they aim to maximize aerodynamic efficiency and boost performance on the track, setting the stage for an exciting race at Imola.
