Quote:
|
Originally Posted by MulsanneMike
Not sure where I see total downforce levels playing any part into the equation. The problem is that the shape of the cars in cross section promotes lift that counteracts car weight when large yaw angles are encountered. Point of fact is that the cars aren't meant to travel sideways!
|
IMO, it's two fold, cars need to be slowed and the lift problem needs to be addressed.
1. You can slow cars by 5 seconds a lap at Le Mans to stand still, they'd still qualify under 3.30 and race around 3.30+ in '09. Or you can slow them by 10 seconds a lap so the manufactuers have 2-3 years development ahead, without the hassle of reg tinkering, before another major change is needed.
2. The Porsche curves are quick, but the cars are only travelling at 160mph-180mph, a car going sideways should not take off in this day and age. Only recently did we see the rear wing strakes introduced to WRC cars, this ensured cars did not lose downforce when sliding on gravel, so obviously knowledge of aero when a car is side-on is still limited.
Is it not possible to introduce roof/body flaps like NASCAR, even some kind under the car. Or reduce the size of the underfloor with tunnels, stepped floors etc.