I have read your arguments and I will like to add some counter arguments.
1. I think it is more likely that the engine will blow (almost certain). Obviously you are more like 50-50 and you haven't found any proof. Actually we have proof about it. Firstly there was a failure in the testing laps! Failure in the testing laps means (if nothing changes between) failure during the race when the engine is under a lot more pressure. Secondly the most failures happened at that temperature. That means something about how the engine works under these conditions.
2. Why would Sir Raph wants to sign after the race and not before? That means that his decision will be affected by the result. A blow engine is not a good result for sure. But what if we could rearrange the meeting under less risky conditions?
3. What about drivers' safety? Besides that imagine the reputational loss of a possible injury or death of our driver or others especially if it comes out that we knew about the problem.
Chris
About the counter arguments:
ReplyDelete1. I still think engine blowouts are part of the game. and even if the circumstances are heavier, it is not certain for 100% that the engine will blow.
2. Maybe Sir Ralphs decision will be affected by the race, but thats why I think it would be worse to not race. Because than we present ER as a team that has no trust in itself and that is not persevering. In my opinion, sending out that message would be worse than having an engine blow during the race.
3. I must agree that you do have a point here, the drivers safety can be an issue. However, people that participate in the racing sport willingly take on the risks involved, so the drivers know that every race there might be a chance something goes wrong, which could result in injury or worse...Maybe it would be an idea to ask our driver whether he would be willing to race, after informing him about the potential problems?
Maaike
1. Its not 100% but the way I see it and obviously the way Chief Engineer sees it is close to 100% maybe around 90%. Engine blow-outs are part of the sport but when you have strong indications about it and your sponsorship depends on that its not the smartest thing to get your car out there.
ReplyDelete2. I dont think its about trust in ourselves. Its about facts. I believe that if Sir Ralph knows about motorsports, he would understand the engineering point of view of the decision not to race.
3.Drivers are risky by nature, he would never say "I wont race". Plus he is paid to do so. :P
In addition engine blow-out costs a hell lot of money and I must remind you ER is in financial trouble.