Apr.24 (GMM) McLaren is using another development of its modified Shanghai-spec diffuser in Bahrain.
"We have an adaptation of our conventional diffuser," team boss Martin Whitmarsh is quoted as confirming to Auto Motor und Sport.The changes, as in China, are based on the Court of Appeal ruling, where the controversial Brawn, Toyota and Williams-style diffusers were deemed fully legal.While those teams are thought to be benefiting to the tune of several tenths per lap, however, those needing to adapt can expect less advantage.Whitmarsh said of McLaren's Bahrain update: "It brings a bit more downforce but is not a giant step."He said aerodynamicists in the wind tunnel are yet to unlock the full potential of the 'double-decker' concept."It is a difficult area," Whitmarsh continued. "If we had begun with it a year ago, the whole car would have been conceived on that basis."Ferrari is also working on a new diffuser, that should be ready by the forthcoming Spanish grand prix.But Stefano Domenicali warned: "It depends on what our people in the wind tunnel find. It will be no 'F61'. There will no new car because it would be finished too late."
