New Mercedes passes FIA crash tests

The Mercedes AMG W04 chassis has passed all of the necessary FIA crash tests ahead of the new year, according to Germany's Auto Motor und Sport.

The Brackley-based squad's new design is expected to feature a heavily-modified rear end, built in time to hit the track during the opening pre-season test at Jerez.

Lewis Hamilton, who replaces Michael Schumacher at the famous German marque, will race alongside former karting team-mate Nico Rosberg in 2013.