Introduction
The 2016 Mercedes AMG W07 Hybrid is a Formula One racing car developed by Mercedes-Benz and its performance division, AMG. It was used during the 2016 Formula One season and was a successor to the successful Mercedes F1 W05 Hybrid, which won both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships in the 2014 and 2015 seasons. The W07 Hybrid was powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 engine and two energy recovery systems, or ERS, and was driven by world champions Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg. The car was designed to comply with the 2016 Formula One regulations, which included a reduction in the number of power units available for the season.
Power Unit
The power unit of the W07 Hybrid is a 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 engine, which is capable of producing up to 900 horsepower. It is mated to two energy recovery systems, or ERS; the Motor Generator Unit-Kinetic (MGU-K) and the Motor Generator Unit-Heat (MGU-H). The MGU-K is used to store energy from braking, while the MGU-H is used to harvest energy from the turbocharger. The two systems are connected to an Energy Store, which stores the energy until it is needed. The total power output of the system is around 1000 horsepower.
Chassis and Suspension
The chassis and suspension of the W07 Hybrid were designed to maximise aerodynamic efficiency. The car was equipped with a carbon-fibre monocoque, which was designed to be stiffer and lighter than the previous cars. The suspension was also designed to be more efficient, with a wider track and shorter wheelbase than previous cars. The car also featured a lower nose, which allowed for more airflow underneath the car and improved downforce.
Aerodynamics
The aerodynamics of the W07 Hybrid were designed to take full advantage of the new regulations. The car featured an aggressive front wing and rear wing, which together with the sculpted sidepods, created an efficient aerodynamic package. The car also featured an innovative drag reduction system, which allowed the driver to adjust the rear wing angle during the race. This allowed the driver to reduce drag and increase straight line speed.
Testing and Development
The W07 Hybrid was tested extensively during the 2016 season, with the team traveling to various circuits around the world to test and refine the car. The car was also tested in the wind tunnel, where the team were able to make constant improvements to the aerodynamics of the car. The team also tested the car in the simulator, allowing them to refine the setup of the car for different circuits.
Race Results
The W07 Hybrid was a dominant force in the 2016 Formula One season. The car won 12 of the 21 races, with Lewis Hamilton winning 10 of them and Nico Rosberg winning the other two. The car also won the Constructors’ Championship, taking a total of 19 victories, 14 pole positions and 15 fastest laps. The car was reliable and consistent, and it was the most successful car in the history of the sport.
Conclusion
The 2016 Mercedes AMG W07 Hybrid was a highly successful car, winning both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championship and becoming the most successful car in the history of the sport. The car featured an innovative power unit, a lightweight and efficient chassis and suspension, and an aerodynamic package that was designed to take full advantage of the new regulations. The car was also extremely reliable and consistent, allowing the team to dominate the 2016 season.
