Mercedes to test whether new black livery promotes heating issues

Mercedes is to conduct tests with its new all-black livery in Austria today to ensure there are no heating concerns for the remainder of the Formula 1 season.

The reigning F1 champions caused a stir earlier this week when it unveiled a striking new design to replace the silver that has been prevalent on its cars since it returned to F1 in 2010.

The design was to signify its support in the battle against racism and promote diversity.

A concern, however, is that a black livery - as may have been experienced with a normal road car - could increase temperatures inside the W11, compared to silver which is more reflective.

Mercedes will understand if there is any issue during the Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring where temperatures are expected to hit 28 to 30 degrees centigrade during the race.

Asked about the situation, Wolff said during a teleconference call, including GPFans: "In the end, the messaging and the marketing is very important, but if performance is being harmed, that's obviously not great.

"We have made some calculations - the weather is expected to be 30 degrees - and we will see whether our simulations with the silver car are different to the results on track with the black car. It's a little bit of an unknown."

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