In theory, the Marina Bay Street Circuit in Singapore should suit Audi Revolut F1 Team well. The team led by Allan McNish would normally benefit from tracks on the Formula 1 calendar that are slightly less power-sensitive, but that rule of thumb does not necessarily apply in Asia.
Yes, in terms of outright power, the gap to the leading engine manufacturers should be smaller, but according to the drivers, another factor is causing Audi Revolut F1 Team problems in the extreme conditions of Malaysia and Singapore.
Nico Hulkenberg
"I think we have to be cautious and careful", Nico Hulkenberg said during his Thursday media session.
"I think Malaysia brought some new things to light and these climatic conditions are not so favourable for our PU at the moment. We definitely had some struggles on that side and obviously here it's more of the same."
Just as in Malaysia, the FIA has issued a so-called heat hazard declaration for the Singapore Grand Prix, indicating that temperatures of 31 degrees Celsius or higher are forecast. Nico Hulkenberg therefore expects another challenging weekend.
"It is a less power-sensitive circuit on paper, for sure, but my personal expectations are not too high for the moment", the German said.
Gabriel Bortoleto
Asked whether this is mainly related to cooling – with Audi Revolut F1 Team having to open up more of the bodywork and consequently losing aerodynamic performance – Nico Hulkenberg clarified that this is not the case.
"No, I think we suffer from power."
This means that Audi Revolut F1 Team is losing outright engine power in the extreme heat, an assessment shared by team-mate Gabriel Bortoleto.
"Yes, I would say that right now, especially in the last races, it’s our biggest limitation", Gabriel Bortoleto said when asked about the heat by Autosport.
"I think what we already have for our first season is something decent. We just need to make some more steps to improve drivability, the situations of the climatisation that you were mentioning, and yeah, that's it."
Audi Revolut F1 Team currently sits 8th in the constructors' championship with 17 points.
Source: Autosport
