Wolff: 'A dominant feeling of excitement!'

40

Mercedes AMG F1 boss Toto Wolff looked about as stirred up as his drivers when the cover was pulled off the team's new W08, or rather F1 W08 EQ Power+ which is the car's new denomination.

With the introduction of new regulations in 2017 comes a new era for Formula 1. While Mercedes' expectations are obviously high, Wolff insists there is a prevailing sense of excitement which has been running through all departments.

"The dominant feeling in the team right now is one of excitement - the factory is buzzing with anticipation," Wolff says.

"It has been a really motivating challenge to develop a brand new car concept and I have never seen our determination to succeed higher than it is right now."

But the fact that everyone's design was started on a blank sheet last year means that surprises - good or bad - are always possible, Wolff admits.

"Of course, in terms of relative performance, it's clear that any rule change brings with it a big reset but also a big opportunity.

"This is the time to stay humble and keep our feet on the ground. None of the teams has raced under these rules and we all have the same points right now: zero."

Hamilton's first take on W08: 'The car felt incredible!'

Wolff agrees with the general opinion about in-season development: it will be fast-paced, never ending and incredibly important.

"This year, in-season development will play a big role in determining the championship outcome.

"None of us know where we will stand at the first race but I am confident that, whatever that position is, we have the people and the capability to deal with every challenge that comes our way.

"This will be the season where our full works team can show its true strength."

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.