Will the 2009 F1 have slower lap times?

Q: Will the 2009 F1 have slower lap times? http://images.gpupdate.net/large/97141.jpg (Schumi testing the F2009) chi5to5 wrote> "shown that it won't change the top speed of the car." top speed isnt everything. Dont you think it's more about downforce (gluing the car to the track). If they strip too much, the car won't stick, resulting in slower lap times.

A: To answer this question we need to look at some key changes next year. The first factor is downforce, reduced to improve overtaking. There will be quite a big reduction in front wing and barge board efficiency and less winglet devices. There is greater freedom to develop a more effective rear diffuser. This is to address front wing stall issues of following cars, that has plagued modern Formula 1. Secondly is the introduction of slick tyres. Slick tyres not only greatly increase grip and cornering speeds, they also provide more emphasis on the mechanical grip of the car rather than the aero. This basically means more fun racing. Grooved tyres were a rushed in safety measure to cut cornering speeds that has outlived its time in the sport. Finally, there is the introduction of the 'KERS' regenerative braking system. This controversial and potentially dangerous system stores braking energy to be used as an 'engine boost' that can be operated from a touch of the button from the steering wheel. It seems everyone has gone down the route of storing this energy in a battery. The stored energy will roughly provide an 80hp increase for 6 seconds per lap when the driver wants it. There have been recent problems, with a fire and electricution incident. Putting all these factors together, you have a car with quite a lot less downforce and greater mechanical grip. You also have a brief increase in power per lap if requested, but this will have a substantially affect on lap times. The net result is predicted by simulations is an increase in lap times by 0.7 secs. Taking into consideration the development of F1, we would not be surprised to see that dwindle as the 2009 season progresses.

Related items