Ford and its competitors are exploring a theory behind the recent performance dip at the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix. It is suggested that the aggressive kerbs at Albert Park may be affecting the variable cam timing of Ford’s 5.4-litre Coyote engine. This speculation arises as the Gen3 Mustang has not secured a win in the last 11 races at the Melbourne circuit.
Brendan McGinnskin, Ford Performance’s Australian motorsport engineering lead, acknowledged the potential impact of the kerbs on cam timing based on limited data. However, he emphasized that the issue may not solely be attributed to the kerbs but could involve a combination of factors affecting performance.
The concern extends to a broader discussion on straight-line speed, a topic that surfaced even during the Mustang’s dominance at the Sydney 500. McGinniskin highlighted disparities in straight-line performance among brands, prompting further investigation into the matter by Ford’s homologation team, Dick Johnson Racing.
While celebrating podium finishes and race wins, Ford acknowledges the need to address feedback from drivers who feel the cars are lacking competitiveness in straight-line performance. This issue has been flagged not only through timing data but also through direct driver input, indicating a consistent trend across different tracks.
McGinniskin elaborated on the complexity of the situation, pointing out the variable cam timing engine’s role in adjusting power delivery. He emphasized the engine’s adaptability to factors like kerbs, ambient temperature, and altitude to optimize performance.
Currently, Ford driver Cam Waters is positioned second in the championship standings, trailing Will Brown by seven points. The upcoming Taupō Super440 presents an opportunity for Ford to recalibrate and enhance its competitive edge in the series.
As Ford navigates through performance challenges, the Supercars paddock remains abuzz with discussions on technical nuances and strategic adjustments to regain dominance on the track. The quest for optimal performance continues as teams analyze data, incorporate feedback, and fine-tune engineering solutions to stay ahead in the competitive motorsport landscape.