Williams has become the latest team to reveal the design of its 2014 car via a computer-generated render of their FW36.
The most striking and obvious feature is that of the nose. Williams have adopted the so-called ‘ant-eater’ nose, aimed at increasing the amount of air passing underneath the front structure.
The car is also the first Williams to use Mercedes power following a new agreement between the two companies.
Speaking about the car, chief technical officer Pat Symonds said he was pleased with the power units performance.
“There’s a lot more technology on the cars this year,” he said. “We’ve had turbo-charged engines in F1 before; what’s different this time is that it is much more than just an engine change, it is a completely different system. We’ve gone from a slightly hybridised normally aspirated engine to a fully integrated hybrid power unit with novel technology at its heart.
“This is the first time that Williams has worked with Mercedes in F1 and we’ve been very impressed,” he added. “Their professionalism and commitment have been notable and we’re as confident as we can be that the power unit will be competitive.”
Whilst the engine is a big factor, aerodynamics will still play a major role according to the Briton who confidently believes Williams will be closer to the front.
“F1 is still going to be an aerodynamic formula in 2014. There are some significant changes: the nose is lower than last year and the front wing is narrower, which means the end plates are now more shrouded by the front tyre,” he explained.
“The rear wing isn’t as deep as last year and the beam wing below it is no longer permitted, and we’ve also lost the ability to use the exhaust to enhance aero performance.
“I’m confident that we’ll be closer to the front aerodynamically than we were last year. Our ambition for the year ahead is to have a strong 2014 season.”
