Mercedes F1 side-pods: Side-by-side comparison highlights dramatic transformation

Mercedes showed off major new side-pod design at testing in Bahrain, different to the design they unveiled earlier this year.

Bahrain testing is underway today and will last for three days before the first Grand Prix of the season next weekend.

There’s a great sense of intrigue amongst F1 fans for the upcoming season, following the exciting and highly dramatic end to the 2021 season.

Max Verstappen controversially was allowed to pass the cars ahead on the second last lap during a safety car, leading to a winner takes all final lap in Abu Dhabi.

On fresher tires, Verstappen easily passed Hamilton, winning his first drivers world championship. As a result of this controversial decision, race director Michael Masi lost his job.

The 2022 F1 season promises to be faster and more entertaining as ever as a wide range of new technical regulations were introduced.

These regulations have allowed the chance for teams to be very creative with the design of their cars for the first time, with Mercedes stealing the limelight.

We have seen a wide range of different approaches to side-pods this year, with Williams and Red Bull showing off their unique styles.

But no-one had completely gotten rid of them untill now.

Earlier rumours this week had suggested that Mercedes were getting rid of side-pods all-together, that rumour has been confirmed.

However, new images have emerged showing just how dramatic the difference is between Mercedes’ initial design and the one they are testing Bahrain.

It’s quite simply, a masterful piece of engineering that could give Mercedes the upper hand as we anxiously wait the start of the 2022 F1 season.

Excellent comparison of new and old version of the @MercedesAMGF1 W13 from @AlbertFabrega: