How F1's ingenious ignition revolution brought an instant power boost
Former Mercedes powertrains boss Andy Cowell used to say “it all starts with the bonfire”. PAT SYMONDS explains how clever ignition technology delivered a massive advantage
In late 2015 stories emerged of an engineer from Mercedes High Performance Powertrains leaving the organisation to join Ferrari and taking knowledge with him that would benefit the Scuderia. At the time much was made of secret spark plug technology that Mercedes had exploited. It was said this had not only been the largest contributor to the phenomenal performance of the Mercedes engine in 2014 and 2015, now it had also been leaked to Ferrari.
Perhaps the first thing to say to put the record straight is that it is highly unlikely this was the case. Of course, when engineers transfer from one competitor to another – be they chassis or engine specialists – an amount of intellectual property is transferred with them, but this knowledge is only that which is in their heads. The consequences of industrial espionage are so severe that no one would risk an accusation these days.
The forgotten aspect of improving F1 engine efficiency
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The crucial detail that could determine Andretti’s F1 bid success
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How F1’s new cool customer vindicated his McLaren gamble
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Why a departing stalwart was perfectly suited to F1's most pragmatic team
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The multiple facets behind Sainz's growing stature at Ferrari
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How Andretti’s involvement could elevate the Las Vegas F1 experience
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How F1 teams are attempting to negotiate Vegas unknowns
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The obstacles that make hydrogen unattractive for F1’s sustainability push
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Newgarden: IndyCar's hybrid delay makes sense to ensure fairness
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Lamborghini “surprised” by pace of new prototype in IMSA group test
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IndyCar delays official launch of hybrid to after Indy 500
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FIA ends investigation into Toto and Susie Wolff
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How F1's Verstappen era compares to Schumacher's early 2000s dominance
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How the FIA/Wolff case could shape F1’s political landscape
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The two sides of F1’s next big rules row
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The ways F1 can help solve burnout in 2024's 24-race marathon
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