F1: Whitmarsh Sure Nose Concept Not McLaren Mistake

Formula 1

F1: Whitmarsh Sure Nose Concept Not McLaren Mistake

Martin Whitmarsh expects McLaren to be fine without the stepped nose seen on other 2012 cars...

SPEED Staff / GMM | Posted February 18, 2012 GMM Newswire

McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh admits there is an obvious aerodynamic benefit to the stepped nose solution. (Photo: LAT Photographic)

Martin Whitmarsh has played down fears McLaren has made a crucial mistake by overlooking the stepped nose trend that will dominate the 2012 grid.

With the new Mercedes having now broken cover, and Pedro de la Rosa revealing that HRT's 2012 car also has a step nose, famous British team McLaren is all alone in keeping a smooth aerodynamic line from the end of the monocoque to the tip of the nose.

Every other team has decided that the best solution to the new rules forcing a lower nose is to plough ahead with having as high a chassis as possible, in order to maximize the flow of air underneath the car.

"I've asked our technical guys if they are sure that we have done the right thing and they have told me not to worry," team boss Whitmarsh is quoted by Germany's Auto Motor und Sport.

He admitted there is an obvious aerodynamic benefit to the stepped nose solution.

"But we have a lower center of gravity, more freedom in the suspension geometry, and a more comfortable seating position and a better view for the driver," added Whitmarsh.

The main reason for McLaren's decision is that, having already gone a different route to Red Bull at the front of the car last year, a stepped nose would have required a wholesale design philosophy change.

"This car is an evolution," confirmed Whitmarsh.

"In terms of radical innovations that are visibly obvious, I'll have to disappoint — these rules just don't leave that sort of room anymore."