Regulation 2014: Electric Pit Stops
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) has published the complete set of technical rules for the 2014 Formula 1 season, and it is clear that these will require changes in the premier category.
So far and so close. The 2011 season is not yet over and the 2012 season has begun, but teams will already have to focus on the 2014 season, as the new specifications have just been published by the FIA. Among the new rules, one is particularly striking as it states that the cars will have to operate in electric mode in the pit lane. More precisely, the text proposed by the FIA requires that there is no ignition and no fuel supply to the engine throughout the driver’s passage in the pit lane. Behind these rather nebulous terms, significant technical changes are hiding in several areas, not just on the electrical level.
End of external lighting and development of energy recovery
Thus, the regulation implies that the cars must now start by themselves and no longer with the help of an external ignition system as is currently the case. The regulation also specifies that drivers must be able to start the engine while sitting normally at the wheel and without any external assistance.
Moreover, the teams will be able to use kinetic energy, up to 120 kilowatts (twice what is currently possible with the SREC), as well as the energy released from exhaust heat.
Finally, during its pit stop, a single-seater must not use a drop of fuel.
New engine and new speed
Regarding the engine, a 1.6-liter V6 Turbo with a 90° V-angle will be introduced, limited to 15,000 revolutions per minute, which is a decrease compared to 2011 since this season the limit is 18,000 revolutions per minute. The maximum fuel flow rate will be restricted to 100 kg per hour. Additional regulations will specify the shape, dimensions, and materials that must be used.
For gearboxes, an eighth gear should also emerge.
Weight increase of the single-seaters
The minimum weight of the single-seaters will increase from the current 640 kg to 660 kg. The power unit, including the engine and energy recovery systems, must weigh at least 155 kg. Currently, only the engine is subject to such a rule, as it must not go below 95 kg.
Modification of the front wing size
The size of the front wings should also undergo modifications, reducing from 1800 mm to 1650 mm in width. Other changes are expected to take place, concerning the wings and the body of the car, to continue the work started in 2009 to streamline the appearance of F1 cars and reduce the number of aerodynamic appendages.
