Aerodynamics of an F1 Car

F1 cars have to follow strict standards in terms of engine limitations which leads to the overall
engine power being the same across all teams to keep an even playing field. This is where the
aerodynamics of the cars play a pivotal role in race outcome. Referred to as the “Formula for
Success”, engineers have to accomplish two tasks to the best of their abilities.
1. Reduce Drag:
This is done by eliminating blunt edges and designing a “knife edge” shape that enables the
car to slice through the air which is evident by the thin, sleek look of F1 cars and pointed
noses. The bodies themselves are made of complex composites to reduce weight while still
maintaining stability and rigidity under high g-forces.
2. Create downforce:
The high speeds and light weight of F1 cars give them the capability to become airborne. To
counter this, the body and winged surfaces of an F1 car produce incredible amounts of
downforce, multiple times the weight of the vehicle itself which in theory, could enable them
to drive upside down in a tunnel. This is accomplished by creating low pressure, fast moving
air under the vehicle using ducts and wings. The higher-pressure air above causes the vehicle
to be “sucked” to the ground.
F1 teams spend large sums of their budget on research and design of wings and spoilers to
further increase downforce which enables them to take corners at higher speeds while still
maintaining top speeds on straights.