Aston Martin to introduce significant car upgrade at Hungarian Grand Prix
Major Car Overhaul Planned
Aston Martin is set to introduce its first significant performance upgrade of the season at the Hungarian Grand Prix, which is scheduled for 24-26 July. This development comes after a challenging start to the season for the team and its new engine partner, Honda. The team’s principal, Adrian Newey, indicated that the decision to delay performance improvements was a cost-effective strategy, aiming for one substantial step rather than incremental changes.
The planned upgrade will focus on a considerable reduction in weight and extensive aerodynamic revisions. Newey detailed some of the modifications, stating that while the front suspension will remain unchanged, the rear suspension will see slight revisions. Additionally, a new nose and significantly altered aerodynamic surfaces are part of the package. The primary goal is to bring the car much closer to the weight limit.
Newey acknowledged that the team’s difficult start to the season, characterised by an overweight car lacking performance, stemmed from several factors. These included a late design phase due to his arrival in March last year and the discovery that the team’s organisational processes were not adequately structured for their current needs. He noted that designing under pressure often compromises weight optimisation, and an early bold aerodynamic direction, largely influenced by him, presented unforeseen challenges.
Organisational Changes and Health Challenges
The team has used this challenging period as an opportunity to reassess and overhaul its operational methods. Newey explained that the team had been relying on outdated tools and processes, some of which dated back to the early days of the Jordan team. This led to issues such as parts not being ordered efficiently, highlighting a structural problem rather than a personnel one. Significant investments are now being made in engineering simulation tools and in-house production capabilities to improve quality control and responsiveness.
Newey also revealed that he had been dealing with health issues, stating, “I’m OK now, but it’s been a difficult period.” He mentioned that he was not at 100% last year and had to carefully balance his health with work. Despite this, he maintained a strong relationship with the engineers, and the team’s adaptability and support helped mitigate any significant impact on their progress.
The team principal role, which Newey adopted in November last year, is partly a formal requirement under FIA regulations. He clarified that for Aston Martin, this role signifies that he is ultimately responsible for key strategic decisions, with owner Lawrence Stroll also heavily involved in major calls. Former team boss Andy Cowell, who was moved to chief strategy officer, is expected to leave the team later this season.
Impact on Fernando Alonso’s Future
The success of the upcoming chassis upgrade could be a crucial factor in lead driver Fernando Alonso’s decision regarding his future with the team. Alonso, who will be 45 in July and is out of contract at the end of the season, has expressed commitment to Aston Martin but has not yet decided whether to continue in Formula 1 or explore other racing opportunities.
Newey emphasised the importance of the upgrade for Alonso, stating, “Fernando is really looking forward to the upgrade and if it performs we hope he’ll be in the cockpit for another season.” He highlighted Alonso’s experience, feel for the car, and ability to guide development as invaluable assets. However, Alonso seeks clear and tangible progress from the team. If Aston Martin can demonstrate a decisive move in the right direction, Newey believes Alonso will remain committed.
While Newey anticipates a substantial performance improvement, he refrained from providing specific numbers due to the current sophistication of their simulation tools. He noted that historically, the team lacked investment in these tools, and while improvements are being made, the full benefits will materialise later in the year. Currently, Aston Martin is an average of 3.4 seconds off the pace, and even a two-second improvement would only place them in the midfield, still behind teams like Alpine and Racing Bulls. An engine development from Honda, which is currently considered the least powerful on the grid, is also expected this summer, though the specific race for its introduction has not been announced.
The team’s first major upgrade will be tested with new tools and procedures under Newey’s leadership at the Hungarian Grand Prix.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
Isla Hartley is a Sports Reporter at NewsUK. She covered the British summer of sport from Wimbledon to the Test grounds. She focuses on tennis, cricket and athletics and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. She holds a degree in Sports Studies from the University of Stirling and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Glasgow, she runs half-marathons and follows Scottish athletics. “The overlooked athlete usually has the better story.”
