Liam Lawson has revealed a major shift in how Formula 1 teams are operating this season since the introduction of the new power unit regulations.
The new regulations, featuring a 50/50 split between internal combustion and electrification, represent the biggest regulatory change in the history of the sport.
To little surprise, that has resulted in several changes in how each team approaches grands prix.
In recent years, Lawson has worked with his team in preparation for an event, focusing on areas such as setup, downforce levels and suspension, something which is no longer a primary concern.
Due to the complexity of the new engines, the first priority for teams, including Racing Bulls, is how to run the power unit, how to manage energy, where best to deploy energy, and lift and coast.
"I mean, in previous years you come to a race track and it's all about setup on the car, downforce levels," Lawson explained to select media, including RacingNews365.
"What are we running? Where are we running the car ride-height-wise and suspension-wise? And this year, it's so much more about the power unit.
"When are we deploying? When are we charging? What can we do, gear-usage-wise, to help manage more energy?
"Because there's so much more lap time there, and a lot less time is spent on the actual car."
Originally published by RacingNews365 —
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