Haas teases an upcoming RB19-inspired ‘B-Spec’ car set to debut in Austin

Nico Hulkenberg and Kevin Magnussen (Via IMAGO)

As the Formula 1 season unfolds, the Haas VF23 car has encountered many challenges, from tire overheating to aerodynamic sensitivity, culminating in a lackluster performance on race days. The car’s potential for single-lap speed has been apparent, but translating it into consistent race success has remained elusive. Nico Hulkenberg acknowledges that resolving these issues will not be a quick fix, requiring significant time and effort.

Haas has been diligently pursuing updates for the VF23, particularly focusing on modifications to the underbody to bolster their performance. However, a daunting challenge lies in managing tire and brake overloading. Guenther Steiner, the Haas team boss, acknowledges that they do not possess a comprehensive understanding of the VF23’s underlying issues, saying, “No matter what we do, we can’t find a lap time anymore.”

In the quest for solutions, Haas has embarked on a bold endeavor—a B-Spec VF23 car that will bear a striking resemblance to the dominant Red Bull RB19 and is set to be unveiled at their home race, Austin. Speaking to AMUS post-Zandvoort, Steiner said, “We will be heavily modifying the car to better understand which direction we have to go next year.”

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Haas’ adoption of Ferrari’s design concept has affected the team

Haas vs. Ferrari at the Miami GP (Credits: F1i.com)

This ambitious transformation is Haas’ response to the stagnation of their current car’s design concept, which heavily draws inspiration from Ferrari. The high and wide side pods, coupled with the rear suspension configuration, have posed obstacles to optimal airflow and downforce. This design has hurt the team dearly as it has provided very little operating window for the upgrades.

Ferrari has chosen to add minor and relevant pieces of addition to their car as they have been unable to translate their wind tunnel results to reality. On the other hand, Haas aims to eliminate this once and for all. Hence, the decision to adopt the concept from the Red Bull model, a team that has excelled in aerodynamics.

?| Haas will bring a 'version B' to Austin based on the Red Bull concept!

The current Ferrari-based concept is stuck. The converted Haas will look more like a Red Bull from the outside. Elements such as the floor or the hood will be adapted from Red Bull.#F1 #Haas
— GridRivals ? (@GridRivals) September 8, 2023

The forthcoming Austin Grand Prix serves as the stage for this transformation, promising a car that outwardly mirrors the Red Bull’s dominance. While some limitations hinder a complete overhaul, including retaining the same chassis, transmission, radiator installation, and suspension for 2024, Haas is prepared to take calculated risks.

Haas aims to mirror what McLaren did with the massive overhaul of their concept

Haas of Nico Hulkneberg ahead of Lando Norris' McLaren — Haas of Nico Hulkneberg ahead of Lando Norris’ McLaren (Credits: F1.com)

Haas aims to emulate the success stories of teams like McLaren, which demonstrated that a change in concept can result in substantial performance gains. Rather than merely adding new parts to the existing car, Haas is embracing a paradigm shift to break free from the shackles of stagnation.

This bore fruition to the Woking outfit as they have gone from the rear end of the mid-field pack to challenge the likes of Ferrari, Mercedes, and Aston Martin. The team bagged two podiums back to back by the hands of Lando Norris. Haas needs to pull out their big guns as soon as possible since Williams is already out of their range and risk the eighth position in the standings if Alfa Romeo and AlphaTauri have cleaner weekends.

Stella: “…like the one we introduced at Austria. This is at the moment, not in the numbers of what we will be delivering trackside in the next couple of places.”
— McLaren F1 Zone ? (@TheMcLarenZone) September 7, 2023

The American outfit has set its sights beyond the 2023 season, focusing on gathering vital data and insights to inform the VF24, scheduled for a 2024 debut. While major changes typically don’t deliver immediate results, Haas sees substantial promise in this endeavor. For 2024, Haas aims for a new chassis and a Ferrari-inspired gearbox, mirroring Red Bull’s model for improved aerodynamics and performance, in sync with Ferrari’s strategy.