Formula One car
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A Formula One car or F1 car is a single-seater, open-cockpit, open-wheel formula racing car used to compete in Formula One racing events. A typical F1 car is characterised by substantial front and rear wings, large wheels, and turbocharged engines positioned behind the driver. The cars are constructed of carbon fibre and other composite materials for durability and are built to withstand high impact forces and considerable G forces.
Early F1 cars were simpler in design with no wings, front mounted engines. These cars also required significant driver effort for control. Later improvements saw the introduction of lighter cars as resulted by metallurgical advancements, introduction of ground effect, and the addition of wings and other aerodynamic devices, and control electronics. The introduction of turbocharged engines in the sport along with higher efficiency, and energy recovery systems to boost speeds, led to faster and more efficient F1 cars.
Modern F1 cars are composed of carbon fibre monocoques with open cockpits consisting of a single driver seat and detachable steering. An F1 power unit, a 1.6 L turbo hybrid V6 engine, is capable of producing up to 950 hp (710 kW). This enables the car to reach speeds of up to 375 km/h (233 mph). It uses a semi-automatic gear box with an eight-speed transmission and electro-hydraulic components for steering the car. The 18-inch wheels are fitted with slick tyres during normal dry conditions, and are fitted with carbon disc brakes capable of handling temperatures of up to 1,000 °C (1,830 °F). The wings act as inverted aerofoils to produce negative lift, resulting in increased down force.
The regulations governing the cars are specified by the FIA and have undergone considerable changes since their introduction in the late 1940s. The cars are constructed and operated by the constructors in racing events, though the design and manufacture can be outsourced. Since the 2000s, several changes have been made by the FIA, which are aimed at sustainability and cost reduction, such as the cap on car parts, usage of mixed fuel, and usage of energy recovery systems. It has also sought to reduce the downforce and limit speeds, while simplifying car design and improving close racing. Cars have also been made safer with durable materials, improvement in safety features and the recent addition of the halo.