The Mercedes comes speeding in with almost invisible side skirts in Bahrain

Mercedes arrives in Bahrain, one week before the start of the season with a major innovation in its sidepods to cool the power unit (combustion engine and electric motors).

Instead of presenting a classical architecture, wider at the top than at the bottom, the air intake in Bahrain is reversed. The top air intake is narrower than the bottom one, giving the impression of a “skirt” gently resting on the now flat ground with ground effect.

This technical solution allows for the air to be captured closer to the front of the car and clear the sides of the monoplace to eliminate aerodynamic drag and reduce the coefficient of air penetration. In addition to this new air intake, Mercedes is making changes to the mirrors, halo, and underfloor.

This innovation is already causing a lot of buzz in the paddock and Horner, Red Bull’s Team Principal, is said to have shown resistance: “This is not in the spirit of the regulations. Some parts on the Mercedes are not legal.” – before Red Bull makes a false statement.

If Mercedes runs with these elements, the FIA will have to eventually allow or prohibit them. Mercedes has not communicated on the subject of this innovation, but before using it in a race, they will still have to ensure that it is effective.