Earlier this month, Aston Martin introduced an improved package to the Canadian Grand Prix, which featured a significantly updated sidepod and floor.
This upgrade enabled Fernando Alonso to secure second place following a challenging Spanish Grand Prix, especially on the low-downforce Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, a circuit that complements the AMR23.
The primary focus of this update was to enhance efficiency, as the team acknowledged the need to diminish the DRS advantage held by Red Bull, a key concern for the Silverstone team.
Responding to a query regarding whether the Montreal upgrade was intended to make the DRS device more efficient, Tom McCullough, Aston Martin’s Performance Director, confirmed, “That has indeed been a focal point for us, so we’re gradually addressing that with each upgrade we apply to the car.
“The entire process is linked to improving efficiency when the DRS is activated, so we’re continually making strides in this aspect, and this is a small step towards that.
“Every update to the car is directed at enhancing efficient downforce, particularly in areas where we weren’t as robust previously.
“It’s possible that the modifications we’ve made will be more beneficial on some tracks than they were in Canada.”
As F1 prepares to venture into traditional European circuits such as the Red Bull Ring in Austria, Silverstone, and Spa-Francorchamps, Aston Martin’s high-downforce capabilities will once again be under severe examination, particularly after its difficulties replicating its street circuit performance in Barcelona.
However, Team Principal Mike Krack believes that the team has collected sufficient evidence to suggest an improved performance in high-speed corners, which Canada lacks.
“Canada is unique. As I said in Barcelona, we need to wait for a few races to truly gauge where we stand,” commented Krack.
“It’s tough to get a clear perspective due to the combination of updates and track characteristics, so the safest assertion at this point is that Red Bull leads the pack with the other three trailing closely.
“I’m not worried about traditional circuits since I believe the latest upgrades are functioning well.
“We’re about to face tracks with numerous high-speed corners, where I think we’ve made improvements, so we’re actually eager for those.
“During these circuits, we will truly observe the power of Red Bull and also gain a better understanding of our standing.”
Krack maintains that Aston Martin has much to enhance from its current specifications as it takes on the Red Bull Ring, which presents a variety of low, medium, and high-speed corners.
“Every time you install new parts on a car, there’s a bit of a learning curve to understand how your car behaves under different conditions and at different right heights.
“We have much to learn and need to continue developing the car in the upcoming races.”
Related Reads:
Alonso: Austria sprint “not ideal” for Aston F1 upgrade push
Why Aston Martin won’t emulate Red Bull F1 floor design
Alonso: Aston F1 project is the most confidence-inspiring in my career
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Aston Martin DRS efficiency
What improvements did Aston Martin introduce at the Canadian Grand Prix?
Aston Martin introduced a significantly updated sidepod and floor at the Canadian Grand Prix. This upgrade enabled Fernando Alonso to secure second place on the low-downforce Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.
What is the primary focus of Aston Martin’s updates?
The primary focus of Aston Martin’s updates is to enhance efficiency and reduce the DRS advantage held by Red Bull, particularly at high-speed corners.
Who is Aston Martin’s Performance Director and what did he say about the Montreal upgrade?
Aston Martin’s Performance Director, Tom McCullough, stated that the Montreal upgrade was intended to make the DRS device more efficient, confirming it as a focal point for the team’s future upgrades.
How does Team Principal Mike Krack feel about the upcoming races at traditional European circuits?
Team Principal Mike Krack is not worried about the upcoming races at traditional European circuits. He believes that the team’s latest upgrades seem to work and that they have made improvements in high-speed corners. He also stated that these circuits will truly show the power of Red Bull and give Aston Martin a better understanding of their standing.
What does Mike Krack mean when he mentions a “learning curve” in relation to new car parts?
Mike Krack refers to the necessary adjustments and understanding that comes with installing new parts on a car. The team needs to understand how the car behaves under different conditions and at different right heights, which constitutes a learning curve for them.
More about Aston Martin DRS efficiency
- Aston Martin’s F1 journey
- Formula 1 DRS Explained
- Red Bull’s F1 team history
- Circuit Gilles Villeneuve Information
- Insights into F1 Car Upgrades
- Understanding High-Speed Corners in F1
6 comments
Sometimes it ain’t just about raw speed, it’s about how u handle the turns. seems like aston’s caught onto that. Can’t wait to see them at the red bull ring.
aston’s doing everything right! upping efficiency and taking on high-speed corners, they’re def on the right track.
wow Aston Martin’s really stepping up their game. hope they give Red Bull a run for their money soon!!
just read about the DRS improvements, cool stuff. But isn’t it all about the driver in the end? alonso’s got the experience but he’s got tough competition.
Can’t wait for the European circuits! gonna be a real test for all the teams, Aston Martin included. wonder how they’ll stack up against Red Bull? fingers crossed!
DRS efficiency huh? that’s a good place to focus. Lets see how it works out for them.