Topic
McLaren introduces new upgrades and floor changes at the United States Grand Prix to address braking reliability and test 2027 development concepts. The team currently holds 339 points in the constructors' standings as they attempt to defend third place against a surging Red Bull.
The 350kW MGU-K introduces massive retarding torque to the rear axle, requiring a brake-by-wire system to adjust mechanical caliper pressure. This algorithm maintains consistent rear braking force by compensating for electrical harvesting to prevent instability.
The 2026 power unit features a 4 MJ battery capacity that depletes in 11.43 seconds of full power. This energy constraint causes super clipping, where Lewis Hamilton noted cars arrive 20 to 30 km/h slower into braking zones due to reduced deployment.
McLaren manages extreme brake temperatures between 600 and 800 degrees Celsius using specialized airflow channels and phase change materials. These thermal buffers help maintain tyre temperatures within a critical 10 to 15 degree Celsius window for optimal grip.
F1 brakes run at extreme temperatures. We look at carbon materials and the rear brake-by-wire system.