Overview
- The new rules introduce active aerodynamics and a driver‑activated boost, with power output roughly split 50/50 between combustion and electric and a tripling of usable electrical energy, making battery management central to strategy.
- Mercedes logged about 500 laps (2,328km) in Barcelona, Red Bull completed 303 laps, and Ferrari also ran extensively, prompting Mercedes’ James Allison to note the surprising reliability across the field.
- Lando Norris says races will feature more position changes driven by boost usage and energy state, adds the cars feel “like an F2 car in some ways,” and drivers report large speed differences when batteries run low.
- George Russell expects overtakes in unusual spots due to energy swings, while Martin Brundle cautions that too many easy passes could look artificial to fans.
- Readiness varies: Aston Martin acknowledges it is roughly four months behind rivals, and Williams skipped the shakedown to run virtual testing before two three‑day Bahrain tests starting February 11.