McLaren's brutal Baku body package targets efficiency weakness
Summary
McLaren has brought a near-complete body package to Baku, attacking its straightline weakness. The redesign targets cooling and aero efficiency, and Baku's straights will provide a quick verdict.
McLaren has brought a near-complete body package to Baku, targeting its biggest weakness under these regulations: efficiency.
Why it matters:
McLaren has rarely been near the top of the speed trap, and Baku's straights make top speed crucial. This package looks rushed for that reason. If it works, it could unlock a more efficient platform; if not, it's costly under the budget cap.
The details:
- Sidepod intakes: McLaren has followed a route similar to Audi. The new intake is a blanking panel on the existing structure. A full redesign would be costly under the budget cap, but the revised opening reduces the cooling penalty from front wing loading and should induce more downwash earlier.
- Cooling & airbox: Louvres and the airbox intake have been revised. The airbox has changed from an ellipse to a triangular shape, shifting some cooling demand away from the sidepods — airflow used for cooling is wasted for downforce.
- Fine details: The engine cover fin has been reshaped after CFD and tunnel work, with the benefit depending on rear wing configuration. Small updates ahead of the rear tyre also aim to improve outwash and help seal the underfloor.
What's next:
Baku's long straights will provide a quick verdict. Can McLaren run more downforce through the slow corners while cutting its straightline deficit?
Original Article :https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/mclaren-brutal-f1-body-package-change-azerbai...