Followers of |StartingGrid| know that I’m a huge Formula 1 fan. This isn’t something that you see everyday, where a Caterham overtakes a Ferrari in a Grand Prix.
Watch how Vitaly Petrov is able to keep pace with Felipe Massa, and make a pass in the DRS zone for 15th place during the 2012 European GP. (Massa’s teammate Alonso is leading the race at this point.) Continue reading
For the last few days, I’ve had a few friends ask me to explain how the Mercedes GP DRS system is more unique than other F1 cars. I found a video which details it.
The key point to note that isn’t brought up in the video that followers should be paying attention to:
For those who enjoy reading text, ScarbsF1 has a great explanation as well here.
Formula Renault 3.5 is one of the premier junior single-seater formulae for drivers who are on the way to Formula 1. Being that Renault is one of the primary engine suppliers in Formula 1, they keep a close eye on the development of the young stars that are growing in this series.
Recently, Renault released information on an updated specification to the Formula Renault. The new car has updated aero dynamics, including (shock!) the Drag Reduction System that is on the Formula 1 cars.
I’m not sure how I feel about DRS spreading to other lower formulae, but this looks like the current trending in single-seater racing today. Personally I don’t mind having the adjustable wing, it’s just regulations like the DRS Zone in Formula 1 that need careful application on how the wings are used.
There seems to be a growing divide in junior formulae series, whether the addition of these aerodynamic assists will assist future drivers grow as better competitors. For example, the GP2 series has mentioned that they will not be adding elements like KERS and DRS to their cars, as they do not want drivers to develop driving styles which rely on them as overtaking aids.
There is also the discussion around the costs to integrate these new elements. Developing a new chassis, or even integrating technology into an existing chassis would increase the cost of entry into the sport, providing another barrier to entry.
However if the aim for these young drivers is F1, and those are the tools that they are using, shouldn’t they be prepared in the junior series to be used to them?
Does anyone have any thoughts on classes like Formula Renault 3.5 having DRS and KERS ?
This year in Formula 1, we’ve been introduced to a new aerodynamic system which has been developed to improve overtaking. The Drag Reduction System, labeled as DRS is a moveable rear wing which reduces the rear drag on the car when activated. This provides the added benefit of making the car more slippery down the straightaways, and improving the overall top speed of the car.
That itself isn’t a bad thing. However, my problem with DRS is how it is employed by the FIA for Formula 1. During free practices and qualifying, the DRS can be used anywhere on the lap. This allows the drivers to go out for maximum laptime, straight from the word ‘Go’.
The real failure of DRS, in my opinion, is how it is used during the actual race.
|Project-D_RS| 