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The 2014 Mercedes W05 stands as the most successful Grand Prix car of all time. Like many racing machines which hold a considerable advantage over the rest of the field, its design cleverly exploited the rule changes of the time. Like the all-conquering McLaren MP4-4 from 1988, a car which won all but one race, changes in engine format determined the design of this car, and an astute interpretation of these rules led to improved engine packaging, better power and power delivery, and improved aerodynamics.....
Do you mean the other teams using Mercedes power units?
Or Ferrari, Honda/McLaren, Renault?
The others(non Mercedes), can/do they copy a breakthrough design like that? I don't know the details of the F1 engine designs. Can a Company like Mercedes copyright that so others cannot copy?
The others(non Mercedes), can/do they copy a breakthrough design like that? I don't know the details of the F1 engine designs. Can a Company like Mercedes copyright that so others cannot copy?
F1 limits changes teams can make during a season and a monumental shift in design like this would require a complete new engine which is prohibited. Game changers like this are hidden from view for as long as possible like Area 51 aircraft. I think if concept is discovered by another team they could copy it for the next season and likely would have a "one-up" of their own. Likely the only reason we're seeing this video is because Ferrari or others have adopted this concept but also means that Mercedes has upped their game again on top of this. You can see the many design changes separating the unit has allowed Mercedes to capitalize on from more power to a better balanced and more aerodynamic bodywork. Bottom line, I don't know the answer...that was pure speculation on my part but likely pretty close to how it happens in F1.
F1 limits changes teams can make during a season and a monumental shift in design like this would require a complete new engine which is prohibited. Game changers like this are hidden from view for as long as possible like Area 51 aircraft. I think if concept is discovered by another team they could copy it for the next season and likely would have a "one-up" of their own. Likely the only reason we're seeing this video is because Ferrari or others have adopted this concept but also means that Mercedes has upped their game again on top of this. You can see the many design changes separating the unit has allowed Mercedes to capitalize on from more power to a better balanced and more aerodynamic bodywork. Bottom line, I don't know the answer...that was pure speculation on my part but likely pretty close to how it happens in F1.
You're welcome froggy47...I'm sure someone will have a more comprehensive explanation but after a long weekend that's the best my tired brain can come up with
03-25-2016, 05:03 PM
Video: The Secret to Mercedes’ F1 Dominance 2014
