Formula 1 2017 Changes
The Formula 1 2017 Season has faced one of the biggest regulation changes since the introduction of the hybrid turbo power units back in 2014.
Even though there have been many changes, the focus has remained on the bodywork with cars now looking better than ever and of course – the tyres which are centre of attention!
Both getting wider, there’s been a boost to downforce and grip making the cars faster and as put by many drivers, the cars are “physically harder to drive” increasing their training for the new season too.
Let’s take a look at all the details below.
Bodywork – Formula 1 2017 Changes
Front Wing – 2017 Formula 1 Changes
On the left we have the 2017 Formula 1 Car and on the right we have the 2016 Formula 1 Car.
As you can see in the comparison (we have more pictures below) you can see that the front wing has increased in size.
2016 – 1650mm
2017 – 1800mm
Overall Car Width has gone from 1800mm to 2000mm
Bodywork Formula 1 2017 Changes
Rear Wing and Rear Diffuser
As you can see with the comparison pictures (2017 left & 2016 right) – the height of the rear wing has now been reduced to a maximum of 800mm compared to the 2016 Formula 1 season which was at 950mm.
On the other hand, the diffuser is now more powerful due to an increase in height!Going from 125mm to 175mm and the width has gone from 1000mm to 1050mm.
Formula 1 2017 Changes
Tyres – Formula 1 2017 Changes
Remember at the end of last season when people were criticising the new tyres? Now, it’s one of the most talked about things of the 2017 Formula 1 Cars and you know what – everyone loves it!
The tyres are now around 25 percent wider with Hamilton saying the front tyres look “like the rears” – even saying it was “a little weird” to get used to.
The front tyres have gone from 245mm to 305mm.
The rear tyres have gone up from 325mm to 405mm.
Formula 1 2017 Changes
Weight
The maximum weight has increased from 702kg to 722kg plus the tyres – this is why a lot of drivers are training regularly and eating healthy to keep to their ideal weight.
Sidepods
As you can see in the images above – the bodywork is now a lot wider going from 1400mm to 1600mm.
Here are some extra details you need to know about the 2017 Formula 1 Season
Power Units
The regulations have been changed here too!
During any single event, if a driver introduces more than one of a power unit element then they are subject to a grid penalty.
ONLY the last element which is fitted may be used at subsequent events without any further penalties being put in place.
There has also been an aim in reducing the power unit costs which will help to close the performance gap between engines.
The power unit price for customer teams has been reduced by 1million euro per season – compared to 2016.
The ‘Token’ system for an in-season engine development has now been removed.
Helmets
Remember the years when drivers would change their helmet designs?
Now – as part of the new rules, drivers must essentially have the same helmet design at all races allowing for easy recognition of the driver in the car.
Each driver is allowed to use a special livery at one event of their choosing – such as home races for example.
Drivers will also be allowed to change their helmet liveries if they are changing teams during the season too.
Lots more coming soon!
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