Ferrari won less than 0.1 seconds with its wind tunnel
Mattia Binotto announced that Ferrari gained less than a tenth of a second thanks to the additional time in the wind tunnel. A time gain that doesn't really change much.
To reduce costs and level the playing field in terms of performance differences between teams, the FIA decided last year to limit wind tunnel development time based on teams’ season-ending rankings. The lower-ranked teams receive more time to develop than the top teams.
To be noted that the “100%” base of possible development time corresponds to 40 wind tunnel tests per week. Victorious during the 2020 season, Mercedes’ tests were limited to 90%, which is 36 tests per week. For reference, Red Bull, who finished second, will have 2.5% more time than the German team. After a catastrophic season, Ferrari was allowed to use 102.5%. The Italian team was granted only one extra test. But this advantage remains minimal according to Mattia Binotto, the boss of the Ferrari team. The additional time only corresponds to one week of development.
« For the position we obtained last year, we have even more wind tunnel time. The additional time we have corresponds to what we call wind tunnel sessions throughout the season. So it’s an extra session. »
An advantage of less than a tenth of a second gained per lap. Clearly not enough for the Italian team. You also have to take into account the resources of a team and the quality of the equipment. Red Bull can be more efficient than Ferrari even with less development time. Binotto, however, sees this small advantage as good news, but it will not change anything this season.
« It is certainly an advantage, but it is less than 0.1 second per lap. It is always important and I am happy to have it. Not in comparison to last year’s result, but it is something we have in addition in 2021. But we don’t think it changes the game. »
Currently in third position, Ferrari is seeking to maintain its place against McLaren. It can count on its complementary duo in terms of results. The Belgian Grand Prix will take place on Sunday, August 29th. Just a few more days to wait for the resumption of F1.
