The high-speed venue requires a different aerodynamic configuration than last time out in Bahrain, with lower downforce and reduced drag a key aim.
In most instances, the general DNA of the wing’s design is in keeping with what the team used in Bahrain, with a reduction of camber, chord and angle of attack proving to be sufficient alterations to balance each team’s needs.
Mercedes, however, appears to have been a little more aggressive with its rear wing design, having lifted and widened the flatter central portion of the mainplane quite considerably, leading to a more abrupt transition into the endplate.
As a consequence, the transition of the upper flap from the flat leading edge to the DRS pivot and associated bracketry is also more abrupt, resulting in the geometry of the tip section being altered too.
Notably there’s also a large semi-circular notch removed from the central portion of the upper flap’s trailing edge as the team looks for better flow management here, owing to the overall reduction in camber, chord and angle of attack, whilst also considering the impact that the DRS pod has.
Whilst new for Mercedes under these regulations, it’s not a new feature in F1 as Red Bull had continued to use a V-shaped notch with this new generation of cars after it became commonplace in the years prior to the regulation change.
Source: Autosport