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  • March 2016 (Revised February 2021)
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Lotus F1 Team

By: Stefan Thomke, Nikolaos Trichakis, Jérôme Lenhardt and Daniela Beyersdorfer
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:21
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Abstract

Describes the detailed inner workings of a high performance Formula One (F1) racing team. It shows how Lotus F1 Team has been able to battle bigger rivals in a very fast-moving, highly regulated, and ultra-competitive environment, where winning races can come down to split seconds. The case explores all elements of their high performance system: strategy, innovation, leadership, technology, engineering, and operations. Emphasis is placed on the interplay of these elements and how they confer competitive advantage to teams. Management dilemmas that are explored: retention of high performing individuals, response to disruptive technological changes, and regulatory design in competitive environments.

Keywords

Formula One; Motor Sport; Racing Cars; Car Development; Supply Chain; Logistics; Innovation and Management; Competitive Advantage; Product Design; Research and Development; Auto Industry; Sports Industry; Entertainment and Recreation Industry

Citation

Thomke, Stefan, Nikolaos Trichakis, Jérôme Lenhardt, and Daniela Beyersdorfer. "Lotus F1 Team." Harvard Business School Case 616-055, March 2016. (Revised February 2021.)
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About The Author

Stefan H. Thomke

Technology and Operations Management
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Related Work

    • March 2016 (Revised February 2021)
    • Faculty Research

    Lotus F1 Team

    By: Stefan Thomke, Nikolaos Trichakis, Jérôme Lenhardt and Daniela Beyersdorfer
Related Work
  • Lotus F1 Team By: Stefan Thomke, Nikolaos Trichakis, Jérôme Lenhardt and Daniela Beyersdorfer
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