The Ferrari team is intensifying its efforts to improve performance in Formula 1 and plans to introduce an updated engine at the next Austrian Grand Prix. This news comes after the recent modifications to the car that were decisive for Lewis Hamilton’s victory in Barcelona. The expectation is that Red Bull will also present innovations for the race in Spielberg.
Ferrari’s updates will be implemented with the help of the ADUO program, an acronym in English for “Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities”, which translates as “Additional development and upgrade opportunities”. This system was created by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) with the aim of leveling the competition by offering support to engine manufacturers that have lower performance. By allowing teams at a technical disadvantage to develop their engines, the FIA seeks to avoid disparities that compromise the overall competitiveness of the category, ensuring a more balanced show for fans and a fairer competitive environment between constructors.
Although the official results of the first ADUO evaluation have not yet been released, it is speculated that Red Bull, with its new Ford engine, will be the reference for these analyses, despite the team’s own questions about this designation.
The regulations establish that teams whose internal combustion engines (ICE) demonstrate a 2% deficit compared to the reference engine will be able to access a series of benefits. Among them are the granting of special permission to carry out more tests, the possibility of implementing extra updates and an adjustment to the spending ceiling imposed by the category, making investment in development more flexible.
Based on these criteria, several automakers qualify to take advantage of the advantages of ADUO. The list includes Ferrari, which also supplies engines for Haas and Cadillac, Mercedes, responsible for engines for McLaren, Williams and Alpine, as well as Audi and Honda, which equips Aston Martin.
Details about Ferrari’s new powertrain
The possible secret of Ferrari’s new engine, which awaits final FIA approval for its debut at the Spielberg Circuit, lies in the incorporation of a steel cylinder head. This part, which makes up the upper part of the engine, is essential for the efficient management of the flow of air, fuel and gases within the system. Unlike aluminum, a common material, steel has lower thermal conductivity, which means it retains heat for longer. This characteristic is crucial in high-performance engines, as it allows more heat to be conserved in the combustion chamber, increasing thermal efficiency and the power generated by burning the fuel.
In theory, the use of this innovative material would enable the Ferrari power unit to operate safely at higher temperatures. This, in turn, would optimize the combustion process and allow for greater use of the energy contained in the fuel.
To further optimize performance, Shell, the Italian team’s fuel partner, is developing a new formulation to specifically suit this new engine architecture. Recently, the team had already introduced a new front wing and a new floor during the Barcelona GP.
Red Bull also seeks to improve performance
The Red Bull Racing team, with Max Verstappen at the wheel, will compete at home next weekend in the Austrian Grand Prix. The team belongs to the renowned energy drink brand and owns the Spielberg Circuit, which adds a special flavor to the stage for the team.
Max Verstappen has already consolidated his position as the driver with the most victories on this circuit, with four triumphs. However, the team arrives at its “home” race without the same momentum as in previous seasons, occupying fourth place in the Constructors’ World Championship, with a total of 89 points.
There are expectations that Red Bull will also introduce a package of improvements for its car during the Austrian stage. The specific details of these upgrades have not yet been released, but the main anticipated goal is to reduce the weight of the vehicle for the race in Spielberg.
Laurent Mekies, team boss, made a humorous comment about the strategy after the Barcelona GP. “Eat less. That’s my plan for Austria! I hope we stay lighter there. Austrian food is good, I know. But the plan is to make the car ‘eat’ a little less there and go on a kind of diet”, joked Mekies, reinforcing the focus on the car’s lightness.