JONATHAN NEALE

Managing Director of the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 Team on working with Mobil 1 on a molecular level

'; ?> “We are long past the era of easy gains in Formula 1™ and it’s a testament to ExxonMobil’s determination to be the best that they continue to push the boundaries of technical development, right down to the molecular level. The game has moved on since our partnership began in 1995: we are now only permitted eight engines per driver per season, every gearbox has to last five races, and we cannot refuel during Grands Prix.

“This demands a whole new order of excellence. Beyond pure performance we’ve needed to maximise lubrication for strategic gains; reduce friction within the engine so that we can use smaller components, saving weight; and find ways to minimise degradation by keeping the engine and gearbox running in ‘as new’ condition. ExxonMobil and Mercedes-Benz have achieved all this and more by being relentlessly innovative.

“Success in modern Formula 1™ relies on careful aggregation of gains, however small: reducing weight and increasing performance in every area without compromising durability. Enkei’s attention to the tiniest of details has made them the perfect partners over the past 300 races.

“I can easily envisage another 300 races with ExxonMobil, Mercedes-Benz and Enkei. They’re racers, just like us, and they’re just as committed to winning.”

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