The Aerodynamics of F1 Car Design

A Survey and Analysis

Abstract

Formula One (also known as F1) is the highest class of single-seater open-wheel and open-cockpit professional motor racing contest. Formula One racing is governed and sanctioned by a world body called the FIA − Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile or the International Automobile Federation. The name ‘Formula’ comes from the set of rules that the participating cars and drivers must follow. The car is naturally the central component in F1.

There is not much room to differentiate in the design of the engine and wheels of F1 cars, there are only 4 engine manufacturers and Pirelli is the sole supplier for all team’s tyres. As there is not much scope for innovation in these aspects of an F1 car, most innovation is left to the aerodynamic design of the F1 car. The aerodynamics team considers many different principles when designing the car. In this paper, we will be first examining these aerodynamic principles and then discussing how they are applied to F1 cars.

A survey has also been conducted among over 200 professionals/academics involved in STEM to get an idea of people’s opinions on F1 Car Aerodynamics. The data collected has been analysed to see if it agrees with the reality. While there are many papers have already been written on F1 Aerodynamics, this is the first to provide one in relation to the specific parts. It is also the first to conduct a survey among people and provide analysis for the same.