Tech F1i: Mercedes and Ferrari press on, unrelenting

THE GALLOPING CAVALLINO

Like Mercedes, Ferrari introduced in Sochi a new, significantly modified front wing.

First, the upper flaps have a less rounded (flatter) profile than the previous version (compare the yellow and green arrows).

Next, the base of the main plane bends earlier than on the old model and thus rises more gradually to reach the arch, similar as on the McLaren and the Williams. When comparing the blue arrows, one notices that the shape of it is less abrupt, while the ‘corridor’ between it and the endplate is narrower (orange arrows).

Finally, the endplate is similar to the version tested during the tests conducted following the Hungarian Grand Prix. In this version, the curved footplate starts higher (compare the white arrows).

New: a vertical cut was made in the endplate (note the grey arrows), clearly inspired by Red Bull.