Cadillac's solution reduced F1 brake temperatures by 100C – Valtteri Bottas

The team made updates to its inlet scoop and aperture surfaces at the Hungaroring, which had minimal effect on the issue, but the revised cooling inlet and exit duct profiles introduced at the Azerbaijan GP proved to be more effective.

When asked by Motorsport.com about the effectiveness of the solution, Bottas responded: “Good, we've reduced about 100 degrees of brake temperature, based on data from the previous specification, so that certainly gives us more leeway.” The sweltering conditions at Sepang could serve as a crucial test this weekend.

Meanwhile, Perez characterized Ferrari’s ADUO 2 power unit upgrade as being worth “just a tenth and a half.”

“Not quite the advancement we needed, but every little bit counts,” he remarked.

Sergio Perez, Cadillac Racing

Cadillac's recent additions may pave the way for more significant progress in the upcoming year. Last weekend, the team announced the recruitment of three engineering professionals – former Red Bull chief designer Craig Skinner, ex-Aston Martin deputy technical chief Eric Blandin, and aerodynamicist Tim Lean, who has experience with top teams like McLaren, Red Bull, and Ferrari. 

Skinner now serves as Cadillac’s chief development engineer, Blandin takes on the role of head of aerodynamics, and Lean has joined as chief engineer for aerodynamics modeling and simulation.

“The team is demonstrating their seriousness and commitment to Formula 1,” Perez noted. “They are excellent additions who will truly drive our team forward. Remember, this is just our first season, so this car is quite basic, but I have high hopes for next year that we will definitely progress.

“I have worked with Craig, and he was highly effective within the Red Bull organization, playing a crucial role there.

“He significantly improved my floor; I recall arriving in Baku when we were having issues with entry stability, and he devised a packer for the floor, which transformed my car's balance. Unfortunately, the floor was destroyed in the race due to Carlos [Sainz]'s crash, and I never got to race it again, but it was a substantial improvement, so he's someone who truly understands my needs.”

In the meantime, Perez anticipates challenges for Cadillac at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, given Sepang’s sweeping corners.

“I'm not looking forward to Malaysia,” he stated. “I think we will be confronted with our reality again.”