Sauber focuses on downforce with micro-aerodynamic solutions on the C45 in Bahrain. Sauber develops micro-aerodynamics for increased downforce on the C45.

It’s not a new development introduced by Sauber in Bahrain, as the Swiss team is one of the six that did not bring any changes to Sakhir, but the image by Giorgio Piola for Motorsport Italy shows an interesting feature of the car managed by James Key.

The C45 features a curious solution on the outside of the radiator inlets, which are now covered, as is the case with most cars, by the prominent visor that has effectively become an aerodynamic element. In the portion of the sidepod inlet that is adjustable, we see the appearance of a profile that has been designed to create a small Venturi effect with the outer part of the visor, forming a small duct that helps increase local downforce.

The search for downforce is also confirmed by the mirror support, which has taken on a significant aerodynamic role, as it helps clean up the airflow destined for the beam wing: from the rearview mirror, the stay extends outward, creating a blow with the 90-degree rise.

Below the “Stake” lettering, there is a triangular profile that shows the work on micro-aerodynamics being developed in Hinwil: the goal is to generate vertical downforce without creating drag.