Mclaren mcl35m: this is different from its predecessor

+++ UPDATE, 16. February 2020: the first new-generation formula 1 car, the mclaren-mercedes MCL35M, was unveiled yesterday. We took a closer look at the racer compared to last year’s model.

You can see all the changes in our picture gallery. Just click on the picture!

The new mclaren is here!

+++ monday, 15. February 2020, 20.45 hrs: the first new formula 1 car of the 2021 season has arrived: mclaren has presented the mclaren-mercedes MCL35M via livestream from the company’s headquarters in woking, u.k. spectators were not allowed due to the corona pandemic. Mclaren, however, turned on 200 fans around the world on a screen to create some atmosphere.

Mclaren reunited with mercedes

But the focus was on the new racing car. For the first time since the 2014 season, mclaren will again be running with mercedes engines in 2021. The combination has resulted in three drivers’ titles so far – in 1998 and 1999 with mika hakkinen and in 2007 with lewis hamilton. mclaren honors return to mercedes with second M in model designation MCL35M.

The switch from Renault to mercedes engines necessitates major modifications to the vehicle. However, all mechanical components on the chassis must actually correspond to those of 2020. Teams are only allowed to carry out further development to the extent of two so-called tokens. At mclaren, both development value brands went into the integration of the new mercedes power unit.

That’s why the british tradition team is the only team that has worked hard in the back of the chassis. head of engineering james key: "but only to fit the engine. The transmission housing, electrical system and cooling system are new, and the car’s architecture has been significantly modified outside the homologated areas. the mercedes drive is very compact, which is advantageous for packaging."

This immediately caught the eye of lando norris: "the rear section is much more compact. This is seen." in fact, a modified engine cover and a smaller and rounder airbox can be spotted.

Changes to the underbody are also new. Ten percent loss of downforce compared with 2020 due to cuts in front of the rear axle, among other things.

Key: "We’ve tried to make the rear as narrow as possible to give us more aerodynamic scope. I’m sure we’ll see the most work from the teams in the rear wheel area. Everyone is working feverishly to make up for the lost downforce due to the changes. Whoever manages it best will have a nice advantage."

Already tomorrow tuesday, 16. February, the car will have its first rollout at silverstone – with newcomer daniel ricciardo at the wheel.

german team boss brings mclaren forward

One thing is certain: in 2021, the company plans to build on the successes of the previous year. For the first time since 2012, mclaren da has again ranked third in the constructors’ championship. It’s clear: things are looking up under the direction of German team boss andreas seidl.

McLaren team boss Andreas Seidl

Mclaren team boss andreas seidl

A weakness of the previous year’s car: the tight corners. new aerodynamics from the pen of technical director james key are to remedy the situation. Many of the aerodynamic changes were not yet visible at the presentation of the mclaren-mercedes MCL35M. that’s the way it is with presentations in general – the teams hide their technical tricks as much as possible until the first day of testing. At mclaren, there is also the fact that until the test start in bahrain on 12. march is still four weeks away.

Daniel Ricciardo and Lando Norris Credit: McLaren

Daniel ricciardo and lando norris credit: mclaren

New driver lineup

Lando norris remains in the team as a driver, daniel ricciardo comes on board as a newcomer. He replaces carlos sainz, who moves to ferrari in place of sebastian vettel. "that means i have to take more leadership in the team this year," norris knows.

euphoric about the first launch of the year, mclaren boss zak brown gives his driver duo some roses in advance: "i think we have the best driver duo in formula 1."

See all pictures of the new mclaren in our photo gallery. Just click on the photo!

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