Aston Martin has revolutionized its water-slide F1 sidepods, showcasing an impressive performance boost. This achievement was partly driven by the opportunity to invest additional time in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and wind tunnel testing, which the team gained due to its relatively lackluster performance in the previous season.
However, Aston Martin’s success can also be attributed to a bold design shift it implemented during the Spanish Grand Prix last year. Embracing the downwash sidepod concept, which had originally been favored by renowned teams like Red Bull, AlphaTauri, and Alpine, proved to be a game-changer.
By committing early to this innovative approach, Aston Martin gained a significant advantage over its competitors. The team had the opportunity to reorganize crucial physical components, including the Side Impact Structures (SIS), radiators, and other ancillaries, in a way that would not compromise the potential aerodynamic benefits offered by the downwash-style concept.
While Aston Martin initially drew inspiration from Red Bull, it soon became evident that the team was also closely monitoring Alpine’s progress. When the AMR23 was unveiled, it became apparent that Aston Martin had adopted the water slide-style idea that its rival had successfully implemented in 2022.
Aston Martin introduced an optimization package during the Canadian Grand Prix, focused on refining this innovative layout. The core DNA of the concept remained intact, but significant adjustments were made to enhance aerodynamic performance.
To improve airflow around the sidepod and optimize its interaction with the floor, a deeper undercut beneath the inlet was introduced. The bodywork was also tightly tucked in around the ancillary components, resulting in a sleeker appearance.
Modifications were made to the flank and rearward ramp section of the sidepod bodywork, capitalizing on the upstream alterations. However, the most noticeable change can be observed in the position and shape of the water slide on top of the sidepod.
The channel has been relocated further back and narrowed. Additionally, it features a steeper decline into the lower section of the bodywork. This narrowing effect leads to a wider shoulder section, a design trait that Alpine and, more recently, Ferrari have also embraced after switching concepts.
Furthermore, the outer floor fence has undergone revisions, with the serrated step section moved forward. This adjustment enables the addition of a semi-circular step before the fence merges with the downward floor bulge.
At the rear of the car, modifications to the engine cover are evident, as a letterbox-style outlet now adorns the spine. The shark fin has also been trimmed to align with the bodywork above it.
While Aston Martin’s primary focus is to catch up with Red Bull, it must remain mindful of both Mercedes and Ferrari. Both teams have recently implemented significant conceptual changes to their sidepods and floor, displaying a relentless pursuit of innovation in the competitive world of Formula 1.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about enhanced sidepods
What design changes has Aston Martin made to its F1 sidepods?
Aston Martin has implemented a downwash sidepod concept, inspired by teams like Red Bull, AlphaTauri, and Alpine. They have reorganized physical components, such as SIS, radiators, and power unit ancillaries, to optimize aerodynamic gains. The latest updates include a deeper undercut beneath the inlet, modifications to the sidepod bodywork, and changes in the position and shape of the water slide on top of the sidepod.
How has Aston Martin improved airflow and interaction with the floor in their sidepods?
To enhance airflow and interaction with the floor, Aston Martin has introduced a deeper undercut beneath the inlet, allowing for tighter tucking of bodywork around the ancillaries. The flank and rearward ramp section of the sidepod bodywork have also been modified to take advantage of upstream alterations. These changes aim to improve flow and maximize aerodynamic performance.
Which other teams have influenced Aston Martin’s sidepod design?
Aston Martin drew initial inspiration from Red Bull’s sidepod concept. However, they have also kept a keen eye on Alpine, as evident from their adoption of the water slide-style idea. Alpine’s developments, along with recent changes made by Ferrari, have influenced Aston Martin’s narrowing channel, wider shoulder section, and other design tweaks.
How does Aston Martin’s sidepod design compare to its competitors?
Aston Martin’s enhanced sidepods are aimed at challenging teams like Red Bull, Mercedes, and Ferrari. While Aston Martin aims to catch up with Red Bull, they must also remain mindful of Mercedes and Ferrari’s large-scale conceptual changes to their sidepods and floor. The Formula 1 landscape is highly competitive, driving continuous innovation and improvements in design.
More about enhanced sidepods
- Aston Martin Official Website
- Red Bull Racing Official Website
- Scuderia AlphaTauri Official Website
- Alpine F1 Team Official Website
- Ferrari Official Website
- Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team Official Website
4 comments
wow aston martin has supercharge its water-slide f1 sidepods i think thats so cool they mustve been helped by other teams like red bull and alpine and mercedes and ferrari too all of them want to make their cars faster and better its gonna be an intense competition this season
It’s fascinating how Aston Martin is stepping up their game in F1. The sidepod modifications are on point, optimizing airflow & interaction with the floor. Can’t wait to see the battle between Aston Martin, Red Bull, Mercedes & Ferrari on the track! Exciting times ahead!
Aston Martin revamping their sidepods is a smart move. It’s all about aerodynamics in F1. With a deeper undercut & sleeker bodywork, they’ll gain an edge on the straights & corners. Red Bull better watch out, Aston Martin is coming for them! Vroom vroom!
Aston Martin made big design changes 2 their f1 sidepods, like downwash concept, reorganizing stuff 4 better aero gains. They even followed Red Bull & Alpine ideas. Let’s see if it helps them catch up with the leaders! Go AMR23!