Aldo Costa Interview | Beyond The Grid | Official F1 Podcast

Innovations

Aldo Costa's engineering prowess is evident in his innovative designs that have shaped Formula 1. He recalls the 2013 Mercedes car, which featured a groundbreaking gearbox design with an internal aluminum cassette surrounded by a carbon structure, a first in F1 history 1. This innovation marked a significant leap in technology, showcasing the team's willingness to take risks for advancement. Costa emphasizes the importance of collaboration in innovation, stating, "We've got working groups that are focused on a certain area of the car, and in these working groups, they are free to propose anything they want" 1.

   

Testing Evolution

Testing in Formula 1 has evolved significantly, with Ferrari's approach serving as a prime example. Aldo Costa highlights how Ferrari's extensive real-world testing contributed to their reliability and success, despite being initially behind in simulation techniques 2. This hands-on approach allowed them to quickly adapt and improve their capabilities in-house. Costa reflects on the challenges and growth during this period, noting, "We did at that time a lot of little mistakes that the organization had to learn and avoid for the future" 3.

   

Challenges

Throughout his career, Aldo Costa faced numerous engineering challenges, particularly in balancing innovation with technical and regulatory constraints. His experience at Ferrari and Mercedes taught him the importance of adaptability and collaboration with talented teams 4. Costa's passion for driving also informed his engineering, as he gained insights into the driver's perspective, enhancing his designs. He acknowledges the skill of professional drivers, stating, "You just appreciate how these guys are, how talented they are, because you are so far from them" 5.