Rule change on aerodynamics

[benjiwengy]

I'm sure that I'm not the only one this has occurred to, but it seems to me that F1 is an aerodynamic enterprise rather than a mechanical one. This is a shame because all the useful potential spin offs from engines, suspension, diffs etc are banned to keep costs down. This is surely not want we want from car racing? Aeroplane racing yes, but cars no.

So, I was thinking of what simple rule changes could take place so that it no longer profits teams to spend so much money and effort on aero?


Here's my idea. The car body should be one continuous surface. i.e if it were placed inside a sphere, that sphere should be able to shrink around it to form the body of the car (the body of the car includes everything except wishbones and wheels) . There should also only be one upper surface and one lower surface. The same with the sides. i.e the shape should theoretically be able to the cast from a two piece mould.

The split of this theoretical mould could be either down the horizontal axis or vertical axis giving designers the choice of either incorporating wings or venturi's into their designs, but for obvious reasons it would be impossible to choose both.(I think).

The only add on's to the bodywork are wing mirrors and aerials.


I think the above would greatly simply the aerodynamic permeations, hopefully allowing resources to be spent on more interesting avenues of performance enhancement.


Do you think this idea has any legs? Would it be worth submitting it to the FIA?

[WhiteBlue]

The aero rules are there because the constructors want it so. They have the power of vote in the F1 commission. The FiA would have different rules favouring less drag and more ground effect for 2013-2014, but the constructors vote went the other way to keep the present floor and wing configuration largely. They will only lower the nose some, avoid the stepped noses and make the front wing slimmer. Any radical change you propose will not be approved.

[benjiwengy]

The aero rules are there because the constructors want it so. They have the power of vote in the F1 commission. The FiA would have different rules favouring less drag and more ground effect for 2013-2014, but the constructors vote went the other way to keep the present floor and wing configuration largely. They will only lower the nose some, avoid the stepped noses and make the front wing slimmer. Any radical change you propose will not be approved.

Perhaps they would if offered my solution. It would mean more freedom, less regulation and fewer costs. You've read my solution, what are your specific criticisms or are you just saying no one will be open minded enough to even consider it?