MCLAREN GIVES US A FORETASTE OF 2016
The MP4-30 initially kept the same rear suspension design as its predecessor in terms of mounting points, namely the lower wishbone remains far behind the driveshaft. McLaren had come up with such a structure so it could then fit aerodynamic elements like the so-called “mushrooms” and “bells”. Having joined Woking in September 2014, new chief engineer Peter Prodromou did not have enough time to alter the concept for 2015.
Last weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix saw McLaren make a first change in that respect, as it still seeks to assess the solution it wants to implement at the back of its MP4-31 next year. The lower wishbone has been brought forwards to the gearbox and made thinner (compare yellow outlines). Mechanically, it is still a pull-rod suspension, but it does yield an aerodynamic advantage. That McLaren poured so much effort only for a single race underlines how crucial the topic is for a team looking to bounce back from a dreadful 2015 campaign. Expect the MP4-31’s rear-end to be very different from this year’s design.
The MP4-X: McLaren unveils radical F1 concept car design
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