Question about TC

[Raoul Duke]

Ok, this may seem like a stupid question but I am extremely ignorant when it comes to technology issues. But regarding traction control. Is their like a button on the steering wheel that enables a driver to turn it on and off whenever he wants to. Is it a far more complicated process that must be done from outside the car?.

[Skelly]

I have seen the Ferrari steering wheel which has a yellow button with the letter 'L'. I understand this is 'L' for LAUNCH CONTROL. I also read that Launch Control is instigated by the driver by engaging the clutch on the Steering wheel, pressing the LC button, holding this button in whilst flooring the throttle, then when the 5 lights go out to start the race you simply release the LC button with fully depressed throttle and the car goes through the automated rev/clutch program as dialled in by the Team boffins.
The Traction Control is now permanently on which is designed to pick up wheelspin through the rear drive wheels. When the software detects wheelspin the engine spark process is reduced thus producing less ignition and mini-popping sounds (like a mis-fire) from the exhaust indicating that the software is reducing the power of the engine by reducing ignition. I understand that the drivers can over-ride this TC system in the event of malfunction as Ralf Schumacher allegedly did in Austria.
Now can anyone help me with my thread on FUEL ECONOMY ?? :-)