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F1: McLaren performs intensive aerodynamic tests at Barcelona (+photos)

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Khatir Soltani
The McLaren-Mercedes MP4-25 that Briton Jenson Button is currently driving at Circuit de Barcelona in Spain is filled with electronic devices designed to collect massive quantities of information about the aerodynamic characteristics of the car.

(photo: WRI2)

The rear end of the MP4-25 is filled with a support and a rail of Pitot tubes (a pressure measurement instrument used to measure fluid flow velocity) destined to measure the force of the air flow on top of the rear wing.

On top of the air box is a tall, black carbon fibre support for one additional Pitot tube that measures the relative air flow, undisturbed by the bodywork and the wings.

(photo: WRI2)

There is a small air scoop located on top of the nose section of the monocoque, located above the feet of the driver. The bottom of the turning vane located in front of the sidepod is fitted with a bulge, destined to divert the air flow at the bottom of the sidepod.
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada