At Maranello, Ferrari is studying an increase in the compression ratio of its power unit, aiming to reduce the performance gap with Mercedes.
So far, the China weekend has provided new indications about the current performance levels, redefining a picture that is constantly evolving. In qualifying in Shanghai, Ferrari once again had to yield to the two Silver Arrows, but the positive note comes from the timing sheets: compared to the eight-tenth gap suffered at the season opener in Melbourne, the three-and-a-half-tenth difference in China indicates that the direction taken by the Prancing Horse — to quote Vasseur — is the right one.
Ferrari at work to improve the power unit
It is precisely this conviction that has led the Ferrari team members remaining in Maranello to focus their efforts on improving the Scuderia’s power unit. The report, cited by Autoracer, specifically concerns work on the compression ratio, with the goal of exceeding the current value of 16.0:1.
According to reports, Mercedes’ main strength remains its power unit, which, based on estimates circulating in the paddock, is about 15 horsepower more powerful than Ferrari’s. A seemingly small difference, but in Formula 1 every horsepower counts, and even the smallest margins can make a real difference on track.
While Mercedes maintains the advantage on the internal combustion side, the situation changes when looking at the electric system. Ferrari’s energy management system is considered one of the most efficient on the grid, but Mercedes has introduced some innovative solutions that keep it a step ahead of everyone. However, in China, the Prancing Horse was able to partially replicate these strategies, already gaining some benefits in terms of the car’s overall balance.
The picture is therefore still evolving, but if the work on the power unit delivers the expected results, even a few extra horsepower could help reduce the gap with Mercedes, which for now continues to dominate the grid.
Photos: Scuderia Ferrari HP
