The thought of computerized management introduces regulatory points for 2026, together with security issues already raised by the unrestricted use of DRS in 2011.
Little is at present identified concerning the aerodynamic laws for 2026, apart from what emerges from statements by key figures. Among the many most up-to-date is Max Verstappen’s revelation that the present plans contain energetic aerodynamics with computerized management: “After which there’s energetic aerodynamics, which you’ll be able to’t management, as a result of all the pieces will likely be managed by the unit. In my view, this makes driving very uncomfortable as a result of I want to regulate it myself.”
Energetic aerodynamics will likely be a vital instrument for the brand new Formulation 1 automobiles because the upcoming energy models will face the problem of saving power as a result of excessive consumption of the hybrid half. Adjustable aerodynamics would enable retaining the required downforce in corners, after which flattening the aerodynamic parts as soon as on the straight. Nonetheless, computerized management by the digital management unit (ECU) raises a number of questions.
Steady Adjustment
Energetic aerodynamics for the upcoming laws will likely be considerably completely different from the present system. The Drag Discount System (DRS) is an on-off mechanism, adjustable in solely two positions. The plan for 2026 is to have a repeatedly adjustable system, which means the extent of downforce could be adjusted inside a variety primarily based on the kind of nook. As Max Verstappen anticipated, the management wouldn’t be within the palms of the driving force however could be delegated to the ECU.
The thought is way from being authorised, primarily as a consequence of technical feasibility. Onboard the automobiles, a bigger variety of solenoid valves could be required in comparison with what’s at present current. That is important for cross-checking security management. Valve redundancy is important to forestall the danger {that a} malfunction of a single part may compromise the general performance, probably placing a driver in a low downforce configuration whereas in a nook. Growing the variety of valves onboard is feasible, however it will result in further weight, already at important ranges.
Software program Freedoms
Sensible elements are accompanied by regulatory ones. Repeatedly adjustable energetic aerodynamics is designed to permit changes from nook to nook, not simply on straights, as is the case with the present DRS. Nonetheless, this may resemble what was permitted in 2011, when in qualifying, drivers may activate the DRS freely all through the lap, together with quick corners. This freedom was shortly eliminated as a consequence of incidents attributable to drivers’ overconfidence. Though in 2026 management will likely be computerized moderately than handbook, the problem re-emerges in a distinct kind, elevating questions on easy methods to restrict engineers’ aggressiveness in writing management software program.
The query is whether or not the ECU software program will likely be standardized for all or developed by groups. The previous state of affairs seems unlikely, as a single management software program developed by the Federation would have completely different results on particular person automobiles, given the aerodynamic variations among the many numerous fashions. Nonetheless, the FIA may nonetheless impose limits on decreasing wing incidence primarily based on enter parameters resembling steering angle and automotive pace.
However, the likelihood for groups to develop software program for energetic aerodynamics would open up an intriguing new space of technical competitors. Aerodynamic analysis would not solely concern the shapes of particular person parts but additionally their utilization in a repeatedly adjustable system. Relying on the flexibility to regulate the software program throughout race weekends, this may successfully turn into a brand new parameter for automotive setup. It will likely be fascinating to see how the FIA approaches this matter, whether or not by imposing constraints or granting groups a freedom much like what drivers had in 2011.
Purchase official Ferrari F1 merchandise!
Let different Scuderia Followers find out about us
