Red Bull RB21 Undergoes Significant Upgrades for Japanese GP

Get ready for an exhilarating Japanese Grand Prix as Red Bull unleashes a series of upgrades on its RB21! The Milton Keynes-based outfit has made three strategic changes, aiming to boost performance and optimize cooling options.

Key Modifications in the RB21

The team has revised the central exit aspect ratio of the engine cover, introduced an enlarged exit duct with blanking options, and made a “mild revision” to the lower wishbone shroud and fairing into the rear wheel bodywork. These changes are designed to shape and calm the airflow over the car’s rear, reducing aerodynamic losses and enhancing cooling efficiency.

Red Bull Chief Engineer Paul Monaghan sheds light on the revised central exit, explaining its impact on the car’s performance and cooling system. He stated, “We’re trying to make a small refinement to enhance that a little bit.” The team aims to minimize the impact of the cooling exit on the rear wing performance, both upper and lower.

Monaghan clarified that these updates are not intended to address the air leakage issues faced by the team and Liam Lawson during FP3 in Australia. Instead, they aim to provide a small cooling improvement, allowing the car to run more closed and do less harm to the rear wing.

Enlarged Exit Duct and Lower Wishbone Shroud Revisions

The FIA document confirms the details of the enlarged exit duct, stating that it has been prepared with the option to blank primarily for Suzuka. Additionally, a revised wishbone shroud better aligned to local flow conditions has been applied with an attendant fairing into the brake duct assembly.

These updates are part of Red Bull’s strategy to develop their car quickly, aiming to open up the operating window for its drivers in the upcoming races.