Lewis Hamilton Puts Down Some MP4-24 Test Laps In Portugal

Driving the new 2009 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes MP4-24 Formula 1 car, Lewis Hamilton put down some test laps on the Portimao, Portugal race track. It was Hamilton's chance to become familiar with the new MP4-24 chassis, including the new hybrid KERS braking energy recovery system.

This year the F1 cars will run on full slick tires in place of the grooved ones from last year, and it is the first year for the application of the KERS hybrid systems on Formula 1 cars. Under the new 2009 FIA rules, the rear air foil on the cars have much less disruptive rear air flow characteristics. Cleaner Air (less turbulent) off the back of the F1 cars, is expected to make it easier for the F1 drivers to undertake passing manaeuvres when trailing another vehicle. 

The new MP4-24 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes  F1 car can store up to 60 kW/400 kJ of braking energy that can be applied to the current lap or on subsequent laps.

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