FDD wrote: ↑25 Jan 2023, 20:41
"The spray visible in the first photo also shows that the Ferrari's side sections, while wide, don't generate as much drag, rather they help reduce it. They move (2) the flow of dirty air away from the rear wheel, to remove a large part of the resistance since the wheels are largely responsible for aerodynamic resistance."
Great photo, really wonderful visualization. Article interpretation either tries to simplify too hard or simply lacks the understanding of front wheel wake management.
Removal of this turbulence allows the floor and radiators to recieve only high-energy air which improves their aerodynamic performance - downforce and cooling. Consequently, clean air is also hitting the rear wheel more than it usually would, therefore increasing the overal drag. Combined effects are very positive, so this drag penalty is worth it.