Aston Martin is finally introducing crucial upgrades during the upcoming Hungarian GP. In recent months, there was no room to implement developments, given the extent of the problems with the AMR26. This weekend will see a change. Modifications to almost the entire car – Aston Martin previously spoke of a ‘B-spec’ car – should drastically improve the performance and prospects of the British racing team.
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After the Belgian GP, the first stop of the final European double-header before the summer break, top engineer and former team principal Mike Krack spoke to the press. It has been known for some time that Aston Martin aims to catch up around the summer recess with extensive upgrades to both the chassis and aerodynamics. A completely new design philosophy is expected in Hungary, while engine supplier Honda will also overhaul the power unit during the Dutch GP at Zandvoort in August.
“We will have to wait and see,” Krack said about the effect of the long-awaited upgrades. “For us, the most important thing is that we can really race again.” Aston Martin scored only one World Championship point this season, during the Monaco GP, and has consistently finished at the back of the pack since then. As the first half of the season progressed, the team couldn’t even put up a fight against newcomer Cadillac. Reliability issues also frequently spoiled things: Fernando Alonso retired prematurely four times, while Lance Stroll failed to finish six times.
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B-spec car
“In the past races, we haven’t really been able to race,” Krack admitted. “It was incredibly difficult to keep up with the pace of the midfield. Whatever this upgrade package brings, the most important thing is that we can compete again.” Reportedly, the changes, led by team principal and aerodynamics guru Adrian Newey, are worth about two seconds per lap. A huge step forward, although that will probably not yet be enough to immediately secure Aston Martin a permanent place in the midfield.
Nevertheless, the B-spec car offers perspective. After all, it’s not a regular upgrade package, but an almost completely new chassis. The adjustments are so extensive that Aston Martin had to go through the FIA crash tests again. “Yes, I think the package is quite extensive,” said Krack. “The biggest gains are, of course, in aerodynamics and weight. To really make progress there, you have to change a lot. But everything we wanted to achieve, we have also realized.” He concluded optimistically: “That long period without upgrades is now behind us. The future looks a lot brighter. We are all looking forward to Budapest and are curious to see what we can show there.”
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