The German manufacturer has spent months giving its 2023 Challenger a major makeover after deciding it needed a new development path in terms of its concept.

While the car is unlikely to be shown in full until Friday, the first images of its new sidepods and suspension highlight the big changes.

The tweaks confirm that the zero-pod concept that Mercedes has pursued since the ground-effect era rules has been abandoned in favor of a route more akin to what Aston Martin and Alpine have done.

This takes the form of a Red Bull-style downwash sidepod, but includes a channel inside to further aid airflow.

As well as the sidepod changes, Mercedes has introduced a revised floorpan and new front suspension – which have also been spotted.

Mercedes W14 technical details

photographer: George Piola

As well as bringing better performance and downforce changes, one of the more key features the team is pursuing is making the car less of a minority for drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.

Both complained that the W14’s balance was tricky at times, meaning they felt less confident in it – especially under the brakes.

Mercedes says the gains from making drivers more comfortable should lead to a big step forward in lap times.

Ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff cautioned against taking a dramatic step towards an upgrade in form, but made it clear he hoped it would put the team in a better position in the long-term.

“It’s not going to be a panacea; in my experience, they don’t exist in our sport,” he said. “We hope it will give the drivers a more stable and predictable platform. Then we can build on that in the coming weeks and months.

“F1 is a tough competition and a meritocracy. We’re not where we want to be, but there’s no sense of entitlement. It’s just hard work to get us ahead.”

Mercedes had intended to debut the upgrade at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, but it had to abandon that plan after the Imola race was called off due to flooding in the region.

Mercedes W14 technical details

photographer: George Piola