Red Bull stood out during the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix as one of the few teams to introduce a significant upgrade to their car. The RB20 featured a modified floor with an adjusted outer edge slope, but the most notable change was the addition of new cooling vents at the beginning of the halo.
According to Paul Monaghan, the head of engineering, these upgrades were already planned before the Formula 1 pre-season test in Bahrain. Thus, they were not a direct response to any potential issues with the Honda engine’s heat dissipation in the initial three races.
Instead, they were part of a planned adjustment aimed at enhancing airflow to the main radiator. This adjustment was essential due to the complexity of Red Bull’s cooling system, which comprised four different levels.
By subdividing the air ducts with various heat exchangers, Red Bull managed to further decrease the size of the side pods. The new air intakes were designed based on the principle that smaller openings generate higher air velocity.
Additionally, the introduction of these modifications coincided with the complete removal of the gills at the base of the RB20’s engine cover.
The development direction taken by Red Bull with this update also suggests that they are not pursuing Mercedes’ zero pod concept. This was a speculation at the start of the season, but it seems that Red Bull’s strategy diverges from that path.
