Mercedes Formula 1 team enjoyed a dual unveiling in Barcelona yesterday as they took the sheets off of the F1 W03 and their latest roadster, the SL63 AMG.
As with nearly all of the 2012 machines, the F1 W03 features a step-nose, although the Mercedes possesses a rather more “pointy” variation of the feature.
Having achieved a lower core weight than last year’s MGP W02, the Anglo-German team believe this new model to be better packaged and more efficient.
Despite failing to deliver fully in 2011, Mercedes Team Principal Ross Brawn hopes the new entry fulfils its potential.
“Notwithstanding the distinctive nose design, which is certainly an acquired taste, the F1 W03 is an elegant interpretation of the current regulations, and a clear step forward over its predecessor in terms of detail design and sophistication. Last year, we produced a very bold car and, although its more radical elements didn’t always deliver the results we had hoped for, the experience we gained has been invaluable to the design of the 2012 car.
The F1 W03 is also a more integrated package, which reflects the ever-strengthening ties between our technical teams in Brackley and Brixworth, and demonstrates that our Silver Arrows works team is taking the next step forward in terms of on-track performance.”
The F1 W03 ran some 354 km at a private test at the Circuit de Catalunya on Sunday, following on from a filming day at the Silverstone circuit last week.
If nothing else, Mercedes will want this car to lift them out of a lonely 4th in the Constructors’ Championship.
