Mercedes front wing fails crash tests

The Mercedes Formula 1 team will be using an old-specification front wing at Australia, after their updated version has failed the mandatory crash tests.

The new wing, which is designed to aid airflow underneath the car and improve all-round aerodynamics is one of many ugrades the outfit were planning to bring to the season opener at Albert Park, but it appears as it will have to wait until Malaysia before it is debuted.

Designer, Aldo Costa commented earlier in the season stating Mercedes' intentions for the upgrade; "With the new front wing we are on an extreme way." It appears as if their aggressive approach has not paid off, and it may see the team slip behind the likes of Williams and McLaren for Melbourne.

Reportedly, the new version is rather radical, with the front wing hanging in front of the tip of the nose.

It is reported that the other updates include a slightly redesigned rear-end which will channel air towards the rear wing and tyres to generate more downforce.

Tom Brooks
Chief UK Editor

Replies (5)

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  • That's not good news for them. Remember they already failed the first day during testing in Jerez with a broken front wing too. They need to make and build it stronger.

    • + 0
    • Mar 13 2014 - 16:05
  • AlonsoMan06

    Posts: 4

    Good. Not a fan of Mercedes, they're a crap team and now Brawn is gone I can see them going downhill. I hope Hamilton is sacked also, he's far too far up his own arse.

    • + 0
    • Mar 13 2014 - 16:28
    • @Alonsoman06

      It looks like you are against Mercedes? Because they are German? I really like the team, and they have a great heritage as well. Let's hope Hamilton and Alonso can fight for the championship this year together.

      Also good to see i'm not the only one who replies on this website! :) Hope other people will join us as well

      • + 0
      • Mar 13 2014 - 16:35
    • AlonsoMan06

      Posts: 4

      @Black Book

      Not because they're German, because they're a turning F1 into a dictatorship. Far too complicated management systems, ego-filled drivers and bullshit excuses for when they underperform.

      Gone are the days of Ken Tyrrell and Jackie Stewart. Proper drivers in proper teams. Bring back the 70's.

      • + 0
      • Mar 13 2014 - 16:44
  • SafetyCar

    Posts: 1

    I signed up just a few minutes ago to check this website out after reading it for about a year now.

    I love the live timing during testing and the extra stuff you do guys. It's a good way to follow the testing live. As well the news gets better since a few months which is good I think.

    On the other hand I like Mercedes, their car but not the drivers. I prefer to see Kimi in the Mercedes...

    • + 0
    • Mar 13 2014 - 16:53

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