Mercedes lobbying for return of active suspension in F1

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Mercedes is reportedly pushing for active suspension systems to be allowed once again in Formula 1.

Last year, before the 2017 got underway, the FIA clamped down on hydraulically-aided suspension systems, specifically targeting those allegedly used by Mercedes and Red Bull.

At the end of last year, the governing body issued another technical directive to address a clever 'trick' steering and suspension combo destined to lower a car's ride height in corners.

Red Bull Racing was believed to be the team which best exploited the ingenious scheme which offered aerodynamic and tyre benefits.

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The controversial subject is still being debated by the teams however within F1's technical working group with two opposite proposals currently under review.

The first is a return to simple suspension layouts with dampers and springs, while the other is the re-introduction of radical 'active suspension' which was last seen in 1993.

It is believed Mercedes is pushing for the second option while Ferrari is believed, unsurprisingly, to be opposed to a return of active suspension systems.

An unnamed Mercedes engineer, speaking to Germany's Auto Motor und Sport, justified the manufacturer's stance.

"It's cheaper because you can develop the system once and then freeze it. It will save a million euros a year and there would be no more grey areas.

"It would be much easier for the FIA to control, and it would help overtaking because you can programme the system to minimise the impact of the turbulence behind the car," the engineer added.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.