Abu Dhabi: Daniel Ricciardo swapped driver duties for an engineering masterclass, working hands-on with the ExxonMobil trackside team and learning about the critical role Mobil 1 race lubricants will play in this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The Australian Red Bull Racing driver underwent a technology lesson from Mike Frost, ExxonMobil Motorsports Technical Advisor, in its trackside laboratory. This included testing a Mobil 1 sample, and learning the science behind the race lubricants and fuels directly attributed in the closest qualifying sessions this year to scoring one place higher on the grid.
“It was eye opening to spend some time in the TrackLab and witness first-hand the level of detail that goes into sampling and testing the Mobil 1 race lubricants and Esso Synergy race fuels during a race weekend. The ExxonMobil team’s expertise and dedication is making a measurable difference to our performance on track — they really are an extension of our team,” Ricciardo said.
Looking to this weekend, the Yas Marina Circuit presents a unique set of challenges for the ExxonMobil trackside engineers. The track demands sharp acceleration between turns putting stress on the engine and gearbox. The dusty conditions in the desert also require specific monitoring of the fuel, lubricants and testing equipment to ensure zero contamination.
The fuel and lubricant formulations brought to Abu Dhabi are part of the ongoing Mobil 1 development programme. David Tsurusaki, Technology Motorsports Manager, commented: “On and off the track, we have a rigorous development programme for our Mobil 1 race lubricants and Esso Synergy race fuels. Hand-in-hand with Red Bull Racing we’ve made some great steps this season and we’re confident we can carry this forward into 2018.”
