Mercedes has swiftly followed in Ferrari’s footsteps, openly acknowledging that their attention has now pivoted towards the development of the 2024 Formula 1 car.
With Red Bull’s dominance reigning this year, Ferrari’s team principal Frederic Vasseur recently conceded that the primary focus has indeed shifted to the 2024 car, rather than the current one, now undergoing testing in the wind tunnel.
Mike Elliot, Mercedes’ Chief Technical Officer, aligns with this strategic approach, affirming, “Our objective is to clinch championships. Regrettably, we do not occupy that position this year.”
“But we are intent on achieving it next year. It is imperative that we strike the right equilibrium between extracting every bit of knowledge from our present car and channelling the majority of our endeavours into the car for the upcoming year.”
James Allison, the Technical Director who assumed the position from Elliot this year, elaborated, “At this stage of the year, the wind tunnel is intently focused on the 2024 car.”
“Substantial portions of the drawing office, vehicle dynamics, and the manufacture of long-lead time production components are progressively adjusting their priorities,” he added.
“As we progress beyond the summer hiatus, the emphasis on addressing the demands of the car for the next year amplifies. However, this course of action also presents avenues for the present (2023) car.”
In the words of team boss Toto Wolff, “The sails are now set for 2024.”
“While we have additional updates planned for the W14, I concur with the shift in focus towards next year. There exists a wealth of potential for optimization on the existing car without overemphasizing upgrades.”
