On its 64th single-seater, the new SF71H, Ferrari made several changes in compliance with the rule changes introduced last season in the Formula 1 World Championship, including significant aerodynamic modifications, aiming at increasing performance and safety.
Compared to 2017’s SF70H, the wheelbase has been changed slightly, with the side dimensions also revised along with the cooling system, and the design of the suspension. The engine department, on the other hand, has based its work on the new rule that modified some important parameters. The number of V6 engines that can be used over the course of the season this year has decreased from four to three, and the same number applies to the turbo-compressor and MGU-H – the energy recovery system attached to the turbo. However, only two MGU-K – the device that generates kinetic energy linked to the transmission -, electronic control units, and batteries are allowed over the year. The most obvious modification to the line of the single-seater is the introduction of the Halo, designed to protect the cockpit area. It’s weight of about 7 Kg being only partly compensated for with an increase of 5 Kg – from 728 to 733 – to the minimum car weight set in the 2018 regulations.
After it’s launch on February 22nd, the SF71H will be transported to Barcelona’s Catalunya Circuit, for a filming day on the 25th, followed by the start of testing proper on Monday 26th. The first session runs to the end of March 1st, while the second test takes place at the same circuit from March 6th to 9th. Both Scuderia Ferrari race drivers, Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel will be driving.
(Ilona Catani Scarlett)