Leading F1 journalist David Tremayne unravels the mysteries of modern Grand Prix car design. The authoritative, extensively illustrated text explains just how an F1 car works, and this revised and updated third edition includes new material about the rules changes introduced for the 2009 season. The philosophy and technology behind the chassis, engine, transmission, electronics, steering, suspension, brakes, tires and aerodynamics are analyzed, and the important question of how these parts and systems interact is explored. This is an absorbing insight into the secretive and technology-driven world of racing car design at its highest level.
Author Peter Wright identifies and outlines five parameters -- Power, Weight, Tire Grip, Drag and Lift -- and shows how each can be maximized. In addition, he describes the variety of technologies (including those that have been banned over the years) that are involved, not just in the makeup of the Formula 1 cars, but also in the component manufacturing, systems testing, and the actual racing of the cars.
'Adrian has a unique gift for understanding drivers and racing cars. He is ultra competitive but never forgets to have fun. An immensely likeable man.' Damon Hill
Get instant access to the history, technology, drivers, rivalries, racing circuits, and business of Formula 1 in this beautifully designed and illustrated essential guide from Motorbooks’ Speed Read series. The world racing championship that now encompasses 20 (and counting) annual races across five continents started in the European racing scene between the first and second world wars. It’s been a long road from the early races held in redundant airfields bounded by old oil drums to today’s extravagant spectacles—a road marked by glory, championships, iteration, technology, and speed. In sections divided by topic, you’ll find the history of the sport, biographies of major drivers and figures who have dominated the sport’s long and storied history, a rundown of the incredible technology that makes its cars so fast, an account of racing accidents and the safety measures they inspired, and more. Each section ends with a glossary of related terms, and informational sidebars provide fun facts, historical tidbits, and mini-bios of key people in Formula 1. Sleek illustrations of the cars, technology, and drivers impart the visual feel of F1 throughout. With Motorbooks’ Speed Read series, become an instant expert in a range of fast-moving subjects, from Formula 1 racing to the Tour de France. Accessible language, compartmentalized sections, fact-filled sidebars, glossaries of key terms, and event timelines deliver quick access to insider knowledge. Their brightly colored covers, modern design, pop art–inspired illustrations, and handy size make them perfect on-the-go reads.
"This title offers young readers a look at Formula One race cars, including how they work, the special equipment they need, and how they zoom around the track at blinding speeds.
Based on the principles of engineering science, physics and mathematics, but assuming only an elementary understanding of these, this textbook masterfully explains the theory and practice of the subject. Bringing together key topics, including the chassis frame, suspension, steering, tyres, brakes, transmission, lubrication and fuel systems, this is the first text to cover all the essential elements of race car design in one student-friendly textbook. It avoids the pitfalls of being either too theoretical and mathematical, or else resorting to approximations without explanation of the underlying theory. Where relevant, emphasis is placed on the important role that computer tools play in the modern design process. This book is intended for motorsport engineering students and is the best possible resource for those involved in Formula Student/FSAE. It is also a valuable guide for practising car designers and constructors, and enthusiasts.
The first book to summarize the secrets of the rapidly developing field of high-speed vehicle design. From F1 to Indy Car, Drag and Sedan racing, this book provides clear explanations for engineers who want to improve their design skills and enthusiasts who simply want to understand how their favorite race cars go fast. Explains how aerodynamics win races, why downforce is more important than streamlining and drag reduction, designing wings and venturis, plus wind tunnel designs and more.
Nigel Macknight guides the reader through a tour of the many aspects of technology involved in the design, development, construction, testing and racing of the modern Formula 1 car. Throughout the book, glorious color photography illustrates the processes involved in bringing a car from the design studio to the race track, focusing on the many different parts of an F1 car and capturing the spectacle and excitement of racing cars in action.
