Changes to the virtual safety car procedure at Interlagos
The tests aimed at implementing the virtual safety car in 2015 continue on the sidelines of the Brazilian Grand Prix, with some changes compared to Austin.
After initial tests in Austin, the virtual safety car (VSC) will be used again in real conditions at Interlagos, with some modifications.
The test will take place at the end of the two Friday sessions, when the last driver has crossed the checkered flag. From that point on, all drivers will have 10 seconds to lower their speed to the reference time. The calculation is carried out in each of the 21 zones of the circuit defined between each marshal post, as well as on the start/finish line and on the two lines used when a safety car is on track.
In addition, the trial will this time include a pit stop simulation by two cars during the VSC.
The end of the virtual safety car period will be indicated on the light panels along the track, displaying a 10-second countdown, as the last car crosses the finish line for the second time, to warn drivers of the upcoming end of the speed limit.
The system has therefore evolved following the initial feedback at the United States Grand Prix, with drivers complaining that they were not necessarily fully focused on what was happening on the track because they had to monitor their pace at the wheel.
The virtual safety car is one of the first measures tested after the accident of Jules Bianchi at the Japanese Grand Prix, which took place in a zone under double yellow flag conditions. The French driver is still in critical condition at Yokkaichi hospital.
