Ferrari Head of ICE Davide Mazzoni has outlined the "extreme optimisation" needed for the energy management of an F1 power unit to be successful at the Red Bull Ring. The Austrian Grand Prix plays host to the shortest lap time of the calendar, with drivers set to tackle only 10 corners this weekend. Three long DRS-assisted straights link up the corners to create an exhilarating lap lasting just over 60 seconds, but the layout does add strain on the effectiveness of power units. "Having three DRS zones on a relatively short track, with some braking points that are very severe but of only short duration, requires an extreme optimisation of the Power Unit’s energy management," said Mazzoni. "The system comprising the ERS, MGU-K, MGU-H and ICE is subjected to the stress of continuous transfer of energy from the recovery phase to its release in the high-speed sections, which is essential for setting a good lap time and for overtaking."
Ferrari 'main focus' revealed
Ferrari took a step forward with its tyre degradation issues at the Canadian Grand Prix with strong race pace rivalling Mercedes and Aston Martin. Outlong the Scuderia's prospects in Austria, Team Principal Frederic Vasseur said: "We will tackle the second Sprint weekend of the year, which means that Charles, Carlos and the 18 other drivers all get just one hour of free practice before tackling qualifying. We have therefore spent plenty of time working hard in the factory and simulator to be as well-prepared as possible. "Our main focus has been on ensuring that our drivers can get the most out of the SF-23 package, as indeed they were able to do in the race in Montreal. "We’re looking to have a straightforward weekend all the way through from Friday to Sunday and if we manage it, then I’m sure we can bring home a good result."
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