Ferrari presented an improved hybrid system for its drive unit on Charles Leclerc’s car at the Russian Grand Prix in Sochi last weekend.
The updated powerplant was believed to be worth less than 10 horsepower, but Ferrari made it clear before its launch that its main purpose was to lay the groundwork for 2022 and beyond.
Leclerc enjoyed a courageous race to catch up through the field in Sochi, recovered from his engine start penalty, drove to third and scored points before falling out on slicks for too long in the rain, which dropped him to 15th place.
After the race, Ferrari team boss Binotto said he did not want to put a figure on how much time had been gained with the improved unit, and emphasized again that it was mainly about future planning.
“No, I don’t want to quantify it,” said Binotto when asked about the time saved.
“I think that’s part of our confidentiality.
“It’s a step in terms of performance, but like Charles and Laurent [Mekies] said earlier, which is more important to us, that this new technology has certainly pushed it as far as we could.
“In terms of the experiences we can have, it will certainly help with 2022 in view.
“But now I’m glad Charles got it and got it for the rest of the season, which is still a step.”
Ferrari plans to equip Carlos Sainz Jr.’s car with the upgraded power unit in one of the remaining races this year, but he would also have to serve a back-of-grid penalty to make the move.
Ferrari sports director Laurent Mekies said on Saturday after qualifying that the team was “satisfied” with the findings from the new engine, but said it was “not a game changer”.
The upgraded engine is still a boost for Ferrari in its battle with McLaren for third place in the constructors’ championship, with just 17.5 points separating the teams with seven races remaining this year.
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