Mercedes era ends as Aston Martin finally unleash F1 title gamechanger

Aston Martin has finally started using its new wind tunnel, unleashing a major "piece of the puzzle" in its attempt to become F1 champions.

The tunnel was subjected to months of commissioning ahead of it being fully operational, ending years of use of the Mercedes wind tunnel at Brackley. It is the first new wind tunnel to be built in 20 years for F1 testing purposes.

The team claim the wind tunnel is the latest piece of the puzzle ahead of its transition to a full works team next year, which will be used to support the development of this year’s AMR25, albeit with its primary focus on the team’s 2026 challenger.

The wind tunnel is housed in a 60,580m3 building that also includes the additive manufacturing machines and model build area for the 60 per cent scale car models as the team seek rapid development and better operational efficiencies.

In a statement, the team said the use of its own wind tunnel "marks a significant step" in the team's "journey towards challenging for championships in the future".

Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell said: "Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the creation of our own wind tunnel facility at the AMRTC.

"The task of bringing together external partners and new in-house technology working hand in glove to such tight deadlines is impressive.

"The facility provides new technology that enables the aerodynamicists to observe in greater detail the complex flow physics of an F1 car.

"Having everything under one roof is extremely beneficial for us as we work towards being a fully operational works team from 2026."