A New Formula

For the 2017 F1 season, the rules and regulations are getting a complete update. And this time around, the word "update" can actually be used. Unlike the regulation change in 2014, that saw the cars switching from V8's to V6 Turbos, the 2017 rule change doesn't touch the engines. Cars in 2017 will still have the widely criticized power units, but now something might just make up for that. It is safe to say that the aero engineers and technical designers will have work on their hands for 2017.

To start, the tires will now be wider. The front tires are being raised from 245mm to 305mm. The rears are being bumped up even more heavily, from 305mm to 405mm. Pirelli, the F1 tire supplier, claims that this change alone will cut 4 to 5 seconds PER LAP. That is ridiculous, considering F1 cars are already tamed rocket ships.

The next part of the rule change is all about the aesthetics and aerodynamics of the cars. Starting at the front, the wrong will now be wider, and tapered toward the wheels, supposedly giving the cars a better look. But if you ignore the makeup, the wider wing will allow for much more downforce, again, making the cars even faster.

Moving back, the side-pods will get a new look as well. Again, they will be tapered back and away from the center of the car. This won't change airflow much, so this is strictly for aesthetic purposes.

Finally, the rear wing will be completely changed. It will now be lower, and wider. This will resemble the cars before the 2009 rule change. It will also make the cars see an increase in downforce, and a reduce in drag. The DRS (Drag-Reduction-System)will be effected as well, as the rear wing is much wider, DRS will be much more effective.

With so many changes on the cards for 2017, each team's aero designer will be tested to the max. The rules see changes for aerodynamics at nearly every corner of the car. Whoever can come up with the best formula for the new rules, will be rewarded by a strong year in 2017.

Writer: Pat Wilkinson