The Brackley-based squad introduced a floor development at the United States Grand Prix that its technical director James Allison had previewed as being a ‘bellwether’ of its long-term potential.
The change appeared to deliver a small step forward in lap time, as Lewis Hamilton challenged Max Verstappen for the win before his post-race disqualification for a worn plank.
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But beyond the ultimate speed gain, Mercedes has explained how a notable change in car characteristics – especially in high-speed corners – was its biggest takeaway from the weekend.
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said the contrast in how the car was so strong in the opening Esses section at Austin, compared to its struggle at the similar Suzuka layout in Japan earlier this month, was something that was a particular boost.
“When I look back at the Esses [in Japan], we were slow,” said Wolff. “Here, it was our best sector. So overall we need to be pleased.”
Mercedes chief technical officer Mike Elliott confirmed the squad had taken a degree of optimism about how the W14 had performed.
“I think, cautiously optimistic,” he said when asked by Autosport about the verdict on the car upgrades.
Source: Autosport