Why do F1 cars have suspension?

The suspension makes sure the car can handle uneven surfaces; it dissipates the energy that is generated when traveling over undulations and ensures that the grip is spread correctly between the four tyres.

Why is active suspension banned in F1?

A proposal to bring back computer-controlled active suspension systems in 2021 was rejected because it could have had a negative effect on the racing. Active suspension allowed teams to optimise the configuration of their ride height and other variables from corner to corner. That’s why we rejected active suspension.”

What type of suspension is used in F1 cars?

double wishbone suspensions
To keep things simple here, we’ll say that almost all Formula One cars feature double wishbone suspensions. Before any race, a team will tweak suspension settings to ensure that the car can brake and corner safely, yet still deliver responsiveness of handling.

Do F1 cars have suspension travel?

An F1 car has a very small degree of suspension travel compared to a road car. Its purposes are not just to make the car ride well over bumps, but to improve traction and aid aerodynamic performance.

How does a suspension work?

A suspension works on the principle of force dissipation which involves converting force into heat thus removing the impact that force would have made. It uses springs, dampers and struts to achieve this. A spring will hold the energy while a damper will convert it into heat.

How does an F1 car turn?

As the speed of the car rises, the downforce increases same as drag. The turning force at low speeds (below 70 to about 100 km/h) mostly comes from the so-called ‘mechanical grip’ created by tires themselves and finely tuned suspension. At such low speeds the car can turn at 2.0 g.

Why is suspension important?

Specifically, the suspension system maximizes the friction between the tires and the road to provide steering stability and good handling. Worn suspension components may reduce the stability of the vehicle and reduce driver control, as well as accelerate wear on other suspension system components.

What makes a good suspension for F1 cars?

A suspension must be able to take high loads. When an F1 car goes over a kerb at high speeds, the suspension needs to be strong and stiff to be able to handle those loads without occurring any damage.

What makes a car drivable in F1?

Even though the suspension of Formula One cars are set up to be incredibly stiff, these are one of the most important things to make a car drivable. It is probably one of the most difficult things that can be set on a car, and influences understeer and oversteer hugely.

What is platform control in F1 suspension?

An F1 suspension therefore must ensure that the pitch and ride height of the car are well controlled so that the aerodynamic concept can work to its full potential, despite the changes in downforce at different speeds. This is what platform control is all about. What are the different elements of a suspension?

Why is braking so important in F1?

Why is braking so crucial in F1? Braking is the first element in a Formula One car’s cornering phase.