This could be a momentous year for Formula One but, for now, it is simply unpredictable. There is revolution on the track (the racing starts at Melbourne today) and the potential for seismic change off it.
The move from comparatively straightforward V8 engines to V6 hybrid power units, which harness energy both from braking and the turbo, has already had a big impact. Not only are the new units vastly more complicated to operate - teams say the number of potential problems, as well as the time it takes to remedy them, has increased dramatically - they have already ushered in a changing of the guard.
Indications from pre-season are that Mercedes have stolen a march, leaving Red Bull's position at the summit in doubt. After an awful 12 days of winter testing, the team appear to have recovered based on yesterday's practice evidence, although they admit they still have plenty to do to catch Mercedes, driven by Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg.
With drivers managing fuel much more closely, the early races may be difficult to follow but the added uncertainty is a welcome relief from last season's predictability. As Jenson Button said last night: "There's so much interest in the sport right now, which is good. We've got to try and keep it that way. There are negatives but the racing, especially on TV, should be great."
If fans understand and engage, the new direction will be hailed as a success. If they do not, F1 One may have to think again.
