McLaren explains why the first “engine startup” is so important
After starting, in a short video, the MCL37 for the first time, McLaren explained why this part of the process is so crucial.
Even before the presentation ball of the new single-seaters starts in a few weeks, it has been a tradition for several years for each team to video unveil the first engine ignition of their new machine.
Jonathan Brookes, Director of Formula 1 construction, vehicle assembly, and hydraulics at McLaren, explains how this moment represents a “culmination” for the team.
« [This marks] the birth of a new car and a new season,” Brookes said in a McLaren interview.
« The car comes alive at that moment. “Fire up” is the culmination of the work of many people for months, or even years, depending on where they work within the team.
« It’s a great moment for the whole factory because so many people have devoted so much work to it. As I said, it’s like the birth of the car, and everyone wants to be there to hear it start for the first time. »
The start-up is a long process of late nights and many hours of work for the entire team. Many things need to be checked and signed individually before being put on the car.
« Fire up is the confirmation that everything is working properly and as it should, once everything is set up. »
The team McLaren unveiled last week the first start of the engine integrated into the MCL37 chassis, before it reveals its car in two weeks.
