Hamilton takes new MGU-K as Mercedes plays it safe

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Lewis Hamilton received a new-spec MGU-K element to kick off the British Grand Prix weekend, with Mercedes insisting the change is a precautionary measure.

Mercedes was initially planning to change the component at next weekend's 70th Anniversary Grand Prix at Silverstone, but decided to bring forward the change to ensure a better level of reliability and after "anomalies" were observed in Hungary.

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All other Mercedes-powered drivers - including Hamilton's teammate Valtteri Bottas - will receive the updated Motor Generator Unit - Kinetic at next week's round at Silverstone.

"It's a precautionary change one race earlier than planned due to some data anomalies after Hungary," a Mercedes representative told Motorsport.com.

"It's an updated spec of MGU-K for reliability reasons, which will be on all cars from next weekend."

As a reminder, drivers are allowed a total of three MGU-K elements for the entire season.

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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.