The Alpine Formula 1 team faced significant challenges at the start of 2024, with their car struggling due to excessive weight and poor handling. However, they managed to finish the season on a strong note. With new management from a racing background, the team is focused on continuous improvement through hard work and dedication. Changes have been made to various components of the car, including the front wing, suspension, sidepods, floor, and rear suspension, indicating an evolutionary approach rather than a revolutionary redesign.

Enhancing Aerodynamics and Handling

The Alpine team has made subtle yet significant adjustments to improve aerodynamic efficiency and handling. The front wing and suspension layout remain largely unchanged, but there are notable modifications in the sidepod design. The radiator inlet is now shallower, extending further around the outer corner, potentially enhancing airflow management. Additionally, the positioning of sponsor logos on the nose has been altered, though this is primarily a cosmetic change.

In more detail, the sidepod modifications aim to optimize airflow and cooling performance. The inlet section has seen changes, with the inboard vertical part and the inner end of the letterbox inlet moved slightly forward compared to last year. This adjustment could lead to better air distribution and improved thermal management. The inlet sections that remained consistent are highlighted in yellow, while the changes are marked in red on the side view pictures. These tweaks suggest a focus on refining existing designs rather than starting from scratch.

Refining Structural Components for Performance Gains

Structural elements such as the floor and rear suspension have undergone modifications aimed at boosting overall performance. The floor edge features several small changes, with the removal of an opening that previously allowed airflow to connect with the inner tire squirt. The floor stay is now positioned at a shallower angle and mostly hidden by the rear section of the sidepod. Turning vanes on the outer edge of the floor appear more aggressive, which should enhance airflow extraction from the front corner of the floor and improve sealing along the rear section.

The rear suspension retains its pushrod-operated inboard system but shows signs of geometric changes. The anti-lift feature on the rear top wishbone forward leg seems enhanced, and the lower wishbone forward leg is mounted lower on the inboard section. These alterations indicate a concerted effort to fine-tune the car's dynamics for better performance. The body stay, highlighted with a yellow arrow, further underscores the attention to detail in improving structural integrity and aerodynamic efficiency. Overall, these changes reflect Alpine's commitment to incremental improvements over a radical overhaul.