Mercedes sets launch plan for new W09 F1 car

Mercedes has become the latest Formula 1 team to confirm its car launch plan ahead of the 2018 season, with an official unveiling set to take place at Silverstone on February 22.

The Mercedes W09 EQ+ Power will enjoy a 100 km shakedown at Silverstone on the day of its official unveil before drivers Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas officially present it to the world for the first time in a presentation that will also be broadcast online.

Mercedes' launch date is the same as that of chief F1 rival Ferrari, but the team has ensured there will be no clashes between the two launches.

Mercedes will enter the 2018 season bidding to extend its streak of championship wins into a fifth year, having claimed every title in F1's V6 turbo hybrid era that began in 2014.

The German manufacturer faced its toughest challenge to date in 2017 as a resurgent Ferrari, led by Sebastian Vettel, fought for top honours, only for Lewis Hamilton to clinch his fourth drivers' title with two races to spare.

Mercedes had wrapped up its fourth straight constructors' crown one race earlier, allowing the team to switch complete focus to its 2018 car before the end of the season.

The biggest technical change for the 2018 F1 season comes with the introduction of the 'Halo' cockpit protection device which will be affixed to all cars.

Formula 1 2018 Confirmed Car Launch Dates

February 22 - Ferrari, Mercedes
February 23 - McLaren