With the RB6 proving the most consistently competitive chassis of the 2010 season so far, it has emerged that Ferrari’s Valencia-spec upgrade features low-mounted engine exhausts.
Rival engineers believe the layout, pioneered by Adrian Newey, allows air to be channelled more efficiently into the downforce-producing double diffuser.
The benefit, with also the fast-moving exhaust fumes channelled through the diffuser, is believed to be up to half a second per lap.
“We have a reasonably big upgrade that we are fighting to have for Silverstone, and if that is there then I would be disappointed if it is not a much bigger step than that,” said McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh.
And on the Auto Plus blog of the respected French journalist and commentator, Jean-Louis Moncet said Mercedes’ W01 car will also be modified for the new exhaust philosophy by the time of the British grand prix in July.
It is believed that, while the new Mercedes might even be ready for the streets of Valencia this weekend, a similar upgrade by Renault is also in the works.
Mercedes GP chief executive Nick Fry admitted that the Brackley based team is focusing on improving its F-duct system as well as implementing “the special exhaust system” seen on the Red Bull.
“If we can get both of those things on the car then we’ll be in a lot better position,” he said.
Team boss Ross Brawn has also admitted that “aspects” of Red Bull’s RB6 car will appear elsewhere in pitlane “over the next races”.
“For instance, I know that everyone is looking with interest at their exhaust system,” he confirmed.
(GMM)
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