Regarding the apparent loss of power in the MB power unit. The reasoning has been attributed to using E10 fuel. Is it possible that the new regulations in particular concerning the sensors has caught them out? Does anyone know what new sensors or measurements have been added since last season?
It seems that Ferrari moved forward but is it possible that MB also moved backwards by losing a key technical advantage? Here are the sensor clauses from 2022 the FIA technical regulations.
5.7.7 Homologated sensors must be fitted which measure the torque generated at the power unit output shaft and the torques supplied to each driveshaft. These signals must be provided to the FIA Standard ECU.
5.11.4 Homologated sensors which directly measure the pressure and temperature of the fuel supplied to the fuel injectors must also be fitted, these signals must be supplied to the FIA data logger.
5.14.3 Any pressure sensor used to measure pressure of any fluid necessary to ensure the power unit functions correctly at all times (including but not limited to coolant, oil, fuel and air) must be manufactured by the single supplier appointed by the FIA World Motor Sport Council to a specification determined by the FIA Technical Department. Cylinder pressure sensors are excluded from this requirement.
5.14.4 With the exception of exhaust temperature sensors and temperature sensors embedded in electronic boxes, any temperature sensor used to measure temperature of any fluid necessary to ensure the power unit functions correctly at all times (including but not limited to coolant, oil, fuel and air) must be manufactured by the single supplier appointed by the FIA World Motor Sport Council to a specification determined by the FIA Technical Department.
5.14.5 Only cylinder pressure sensors approved by the FIA Technical Department may be used. The approval of the FIA Technical Department is conditional upon such sensor being available on a non-exclusive basis and under normal commercial terms to all Competitors. The approval request form must be sent by the sensor supplier to the FIA before the 1st of November of the preceding year.
6.6.2 The collector with its associated sensors and fittings is to be produced and mounted to a PDC specification, detailed in the Appendix to the Technical and Sporting Regulations. 6.6.3 The primer pump, high pressure pump, fuel flow meter and pressure sensors are SSC, as mandated by the FIA and specified in the Appendix to the Technical and Sporting Regulations.