Mercedes is struggling with the W15, the third single-seater of the ground effect era which is disappointing expectations. The technical staff directed by James Allison is dedicating energy and resources to the car which will debut in Imola with a major update package in the hope of improving the performance of a black-silver car far below expectations.
Lewis Hamilton and George Russell did not look too pleased after the first free practice session in Shanghai, as their Mercedes seemed difficult to drive with frequent bouncing and locking up under braking.
Mercedes F1 W15, detail of the small flap that appeared on the Halo attachment
Photo credit: Jon Noble
The Brackley team in Shanghai brought a small technical detail innovation: nothing important to drastically change performance, but details that should clean up the flow pattern in the cockpit area.
And it shouldn't be a coincidence that two other teams have also worked to improve the air passage around the rider's helmet. In addition to Mercedes, Williams and Racing Bulls also proposed small changes.
On the Mercedes we saw a small vertical flap appear where the Halo anchors to the cockpit: the intention is to manage the vortices in an area that can improve the efficiency of the rear wing.
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