INNOVATION ON THE EDGE
During some grand prix weekends, Mercedes equipped its W07 with specific brake discs. These were hollowed out on their edge, which saves a few grams per disc and could also help with cooling.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2017?
On 2017-spec cars, maximum brake disc thickness has been raised from 28 to 32mm, which is to accommodate the extra 20kg the machine will weigh. However, it does not mean that teams will automatically use thicker discs, as drivers will theoretically spend less time under braking.
Indeed, next year’s cars should be slower on a straight line, due to the increase in drag, but higher downforce and wider tyres will make them faster in cornering. The average speed would be higher but with less fluctuation between acceleration and braking phases.
