Will the 2009 F1 have slower lap times?

Question

Will the 2009 F1 have slower lap times?

http://images.gpupdate.net/large/97141.jpg (Schumi testing the F2009)

Answer 1

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.

Answer 2

It's difficult to judge what their initial pace will be.

Thing is, with such major rule changes, the pace of development throughout the year will be much faster.

So even if they're a couple of seconds slower at first they can find that much time.

They can't find two seconds this year, although it's obvious all the teams have been finding time from one test to another, it's just a couple of tenths each time at best.

Next year the pace of development with all the new regulations the teams have to play with the pace will pick up.

My prediction is they will end up at the end of the season pretty much where they left of at this end of this one.

Expect to see differences though from track to track, slicks will increase mechanical traction a lot, they will have less aero to play with, so depending on track the differences will vary.

Answer 3

lookin at the pic of the car no one can say it will go how fast or it will be slower from the other....not even an aerodynamisist ....unless put into an ind tunnle.....whatever......i think....as the engine regulation remains ....no major rule change taking place...nothin except KERS is being introduced...which too is not sure to be introduced http://formularacin.blogspot.com/2008/08... ....so ithink the cars must get faster than slower in 2009....lets see....am all for cars getting quicker....!!!

Answer 4

At a recent Barcelona test, altered 2008 F1 cars with aero removals were roughly 3 seconds off the pace but these were basically drivable mock ups.

With a complete new car and sticky slick tyres, that are coming back, they are estimating to be 1-2 seconds slower but its all a bit of guess work at the moment.

Answer 5

No way!

Answer 6

What makes you believed that? Aerodynamist of the formula car is evoled in a surprising levels and since the engine won't change then even if there is a new type of rear wing that wing will produce the downworce force for the car without changing the air flow of the following car. Testing had being done from Pat Simon(Renault),Wilkemsen(Mclaren) and an aerodynamist of Ferrari which shown that it won't change the top speed of the car.

Sorry for the names.

Answer 7

Doubtful, as we will be graced with the joy of SLICK TYRES!!!!!! OK, back in the 'safety era' i'm sure the FIA will insist on tech regulations to slow the times down somewhat but hopefully not too much.

Counting down the days til Melbourne 2009. . . .