Aerodynamics

One of the most prominent features of a Formula 1 car is its aerodynamics. When we watch motorsports, we fail to realize that the main obstruction of a F1 car is not the competitor, but the invisible force known as the air. The efficiency of aerodynamics is measured as the ability of the car to move quickly through the medium of air. The 2009 rules of F1 have placed great emphasis on the teams to dedicate their success to the aerodynamics of their cars. This feature is exemplified through the vast difference of performance between the Brawn GP team and the McLaren Mercedes. Both the teams are equipped with the same tires and more importantly, the same Mercedes engine. Yet, one is dominating the field, while the other is struggling at the back end of the grid. The problem with Mercedes is chiefly down to the car’s inability to move through the force of air in an efficient manner. Most teams spend millions of dollars doing wind tunnel testing to improve the aerodynamics of the car. But if the car’s aerodynamics is weak, then no matter how good the driver is, success is impossible to achieve.