Alpine's new car concept: Big gains or more of the same?
Feb 7, 2024
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Damien Smith, Mark Hughes, and Gary Anderson join Edd Straw to review Alpine's new F1 car launch. They discuss the finer details of the car, whether the changes will lead to more competitiveness in 2024, and expectations for the upcoming season.
Alpine's new car features concept changes and mechanical improvements to close the gap in the midfield and maintain their current position.
The team has made key aerodynamic refinements to the new car, with modifications to optimize weight distribution and manage the aerodynamic platform for improved competitiveness.
Deep dives
Alpine's New Car and Expectations for the 2022 Season
Alpine has unveiled its new car for the 2022 season with a focus on concept changes and mechanical improvements. The team acknowledges that they are still a long way behind the front-running teams and that they need to close the gap significantly just to maintain their current position in the midfield. The car features a new rear suspension system to improve through-corner balance and stability, as well as modifications to optimize power unit performance and weight distribution. While the team is optimistic about the progress they have made, they are realistic about their position and the challenges they face in a highly competitive field.
Key Areas of Improvement and Technical Details
Alpine has made several key changes to the new car, including modifications to the sidepods and sidepod undercuts for better aerodynamic flow. The team has also focused on optimizing the front-wing flap design and the position of the battery pack to improve weight distribution and manage the aerodynamic platform. While the team has made positive strides, there are still areas that require further development and refinement. The car's nose design is slightly bulbous, which may impact the flow structure and will require ongoing evaluation. Overall, the car shows promise but may still need more development to compete at the front of the grid.
Realistic Expectations and Focus on Future Development
Alpine is managing expectations for the 2022 season, acknowledging that their current position in the midfield is difficult to maintain and that closing the gap to the front-runners will be a significant challenge. The team is realistic about the need for continued progress and development to become more competitive. They aim to use this season as a foundation for future improvement and to be well-prepared for the formula change in 2026. With a strong leadership structure in place and a focus on long-term goals, Alpine has a solid foundation for progress, but significant strides are needed to achieve consistent competitiveness.
Conclusion
Alpine's new car for the 2022 season represents a step forward for the team, with concept changes, mechanical improvements, and aerodynamic refinements. While they acknowledge the significant gap to the front-runners and the challenges they face, Alpine remains determined to make progress and close the gap. They have made key modifications to various areas of the car and are emphasizing realistic expectations for the upcoming season. With a focus on future development and a strong leadership structure in place, Alpine aims to lay the groundwork for long-term success and competitiveness in Formula One.
Edd Straw is joined by a host of guests to review Alpine's 2024 F1 car launch and cast an eye over its new challenger: The A524. First up, Edd is joined on-site in Enstone by Damien Smith, who shares his thoughts on the launch event itself, which the Anglo-French team held at its UK base. After that, Edd catches up with Mark Hughes and former F1 technical director Gary Anderson, who pick over the finer details of the largely black machine and help answer the question of whether all the major changes the team have made will add up to a more competitive showing in 2024.
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