Mercedes raises the stakes in aero battle with Ferrari

Technical chief Paddy Lowe said Mercedes had analysed every area in order to avoid a repeat of the Sepang defeat, and concluded that its biggest weakness at Sepang was tyre management during long runs.

"Exceptionally high track temperatures – even by Malaysian standards – contributed to this, however it is essential to have a car which performs at all circuits and in all conditions, so there is work to be done on that front," said Lowe.

China "a different challenge"

Mercedes is not expecting to have the same problems in China this weekend, and will be bringing new aero components as it pushes towards improved performance to stop Ferrari's resurgence.

Lowe concedes, however, that Mercedes is now facing a season-long challenge for the titles.

"China presents a different challenge," Lowe added. "Temperatures can vary dramatically year-on-year, but are generally quite low.

"It's also a front-limited circuit – the opposite of Sepang – with a good mix of corners and a long straight, so it will be interesting to see how the different cars perform at yet another circuit characteristic for this new season.

"It is now clearer than ever that there is serious competition for this world championship, so we will continue to work flat out for performance gains."