FIA taking action against Mercedes 'DAS' system

The FIA has already moved to outlaw Mercedes' new innovative DAS system from Formula 1 in 2021.

The reigning Formula 1 champions unveiled a unique concept on the second day of pre-season testing at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya on Thursday, entitled the 'dual-axis steering'.

Dual Axis Steering (DAS): What is it, and why is it causing controversy?Read more

The device, which allows the steering wheel to be pushed and pulled, alters the toe angle of the front wheels and its deployment along a track's straights allegedly provides a degree of additional speed.

Mercedes technical director James Allison confirmed after DAS became public that the team had been in contact with the FIA for a considerable period of time to ensure its legality.

Motorsport's world governing body has so far deemed the concept legal, as it plays no part in affecting the suspension, which is strictly controlled by the current regulations.

For 2021, however, the FIA has seemingly closed what it perceives as a loophole in its regulations.

No 'DAS' for Ferrari until mid-season at best says BinottoRead more

A regulation within Article 10.5 for next year states that "The realignment of the steered wheels, as defined by the position of the inboard attachment of the relevant suspensions members that remain a fixed distance from each other, must be uniquely defined by a monotonic function of the rotational position of a single steering wheel."

A team could yet protest the legality of DAS for this year following scrutiny ahead of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix in mid-March.

Related

F1 Social

Mercedes drop new F1 team-mate hint in upcoming announcement

• February 24, 2025 22:57

Mercedes

Mercedes release MAJOR statement in relation to Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

• February 24, 2025 10:57