The ‘nimble car concept’ introduces changes that include a greater dependence on active aerodynamics, which allows some aspects of the automobile’s design to dynamically modify dependent on prevailing conditions.
While three-time world champion Max Verstappen is concerned about losing complete control of his car’s aerodynamics, Red Bull’s design guru, Newey, is unfazed by the impending shift.
Verstappen: I want to be in charge.
“Then you have active aerodynamics, which you [the driver] can’t control, the system will control it for you,” Verstappen remarked of the new regulations.
“It makes driving very awkward because I prefer to control it myself.”
“Of course, when you’re behind someone, you might need more front or more back, or something like that.” I don’t think it’s the best route forward if the system begins to handle it for you.”
Aero isn’t a worry for Newey.
Despite Verstappen’s reservations about the growing significance of active aerodynamics in F1, Newey seems unconcerned.
He believes that the increased usage of active aero is critical, particularly with the forthcoming generation of power units, which aim to be more economical and rely more on electrical power.
According to Newey, active aerodynamics will assist compensate for the engine’s reduced power output.
“It doesn’t concern me,” he said to Motorsport.com.
“The more active aero is really to compensate for an energy-deficient power unit.”
“The active aero becomes necessary to compensate for the power unit’s lack of energy.” But I don’t think that’s necessarily a terrible thing.”
