A question about KERS?

Question

OK so a BMW mechanic got knocked off his feet by an electric shock and Red Bull had to evacuate their garage (see link), so what would happen if it failed during a race? Would the driver be insulated against the risk of a shock? what about the mechanics, if it happened again with the fuel rig in close proximity it could be very nasty indeed.

http://www.itv-f1.com/news_article.aspx?id=43442

Answer 1

Val, these two example are of electrical KERS devices which are already in use on cars such as BMW and Toyota (Prius), but in F1 they need to take this system and massively increase the energy density, so there are bound to be mistakes early on.

Other teams will use mechanical KERS devices that store energy in a flywheel where electrical short circuits won't be an issue.   They've still got a lot of time to iron out any issues, and I'm sure that they'll be perfectly safe - and a great addition to F1....

Answer 2

I hate KERS it's g*y it's just another gimmick that will end up not being used and costing a whole bunch of money.  Theres no room in F1 for trying to save energy, even if they want to use it to give the car a 'boost' to go a bit quicker for a short distance.

Answer 3

I'm sure insulation for both the driver and crew is top priority regarding KERS safety tests... this is a completely new technology within Motor Racing and unlike things like Traction Control and Launch Control hasn't had any significant use on the road beforehand either...

I imagine if it failed during a race some sort of a fuse system (thats how simple my knowledge of electronics is :P) could cut it off from the rest of the car and disable it...

Answer 4

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Hey Val, this is technology in it's infancy. The cost in human lives and suffering will be more than offset by the savings at the pump....

I am joking of course.

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Answer 5

I believe the driver would be fine as long as the tires are on the car and on the ground but a crew member can most definately get a good ZAP...  

I could be wrong but I think my statement is accurate.  That was something;