Lauda: Mercedes F1 is constantly learning about V6s

La F1 is launching into the unknown this year with the new regulations forcing teams to abandon the V8 for the 6l turbo hybrid V1.6, the design and installation of which require intense development work. Reliability seems to be the main objective for engine manufacturers at the start of the year, as Niki Lauda points out. “We are constantly learning new things”, underlines the non-executive chairman of Mercedes AMG F1 on Auto Motor und Sport. “You find yourself having to pay attention to things like hydraulic pressure. The water and oil must be at specific temperatures, otherwise everything starts to stop working. »

The three-time world champion hopes that client teams Williams, Force India and McLaren which will be powered this year by the German V6 1.6 turbo hybrid will allow sufficient data to be collected to enable competitive development. “Four stables represent four sources of information. Everyone has their individual problems, but I will make sure everything is put together so we can learn faster. » Furthermore, the Austrian confirmed that winter testing would begin on January 28 in Jérez despite speculation about delays by Renault. " Nothing has changed. Everything remains in order as planned for the end of January but we will have a lot of work ahead of us. »