Aston Martin boss Mike Krack has explained why the team's major car update has not been as successful as they had hoped. The upgrade package was introduced at the Spanish Grand Prix, causing much discussion at the time due to some of the modifications – particularly in terms of the sidepods and engine cover – drawing comparisons to Red Bull's RB18. Aston Martin were cleared of any wrongdoing by the FIA over the matter. In terms of the impact on the track, though, Krack admits that the updates have not been enough to resolve the car's underlying issues. "The upgrades have worked. [They] have brought us a step forward, but a step that is not big enough," Krack told media, including RacingNews365.com . "The basic problems that the car is having have not been solved."
Development direction for 2023 a "tough call"
With thoughts also turning to the direction of the concept for 2023, Krack acknowledges that the team will have to get the balance right in ensuring that they do not compromise next year's car, whilst still working on solutions for the current campaign. "It's a very tough call," Krack explained when asked whether the outfit will focus their efforts on next year or try to develop their 2022 car. "Obviously, you do not want to finish the year or [be] in a situation where we are now, but you also do not want to compromise next year. "So we have to really carefully evaluate what can we do at this point to move a little bit out of the situation where we are, without compromising next year's car. "There [are] a lot of discussions going on there, with our technical people. We need to really find the correct balance."
Aston have an understanding of core problems
Mercedes' troubles with their 2022 car have been well documented, and Toto Wolff has previously suggested that the team need to understand the issues with the current model before they can consider going in a different direction for next season. When asked if Aston Martin are dealing with a similar situation, Krack hinted that they already have an idea of what is going wrong with the AMR22. "I think our technical officer has understood, and knows also what to do for the future," he added. "But then it's a matter of time and financial resource [in terms of] what you do now, but I think it is identified, yes."
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