The 2009 Formula 1 season is about to start and here is a quick recap of the rule changes this season:
- Slick tires are back. There are no more grooves in the tires meaning more grip. The cars can turn faster in corners.
- KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) is introduced for the first time in F1. This stores energy during braking. The stored energy can be used for seven seconds per lap via a “boost button”. This can help in overtaking.
- Maximum engine revs are reduced from 19000rpm to 18000rpm.
- Teams can use 8 engines per driver in 2009. They can use it in any order and as many times as they want. If the driver goes over 8 engines then the grid penalties will kick in. (Renault has been allowed modification to the frozen engine to bring it on par to others)
- The front wing has been made lower and wider. The rear wing has been made taller and narrower. These changes are made to allow a car to follow another closely without losing much aerodynamic downforce. Hopefully this will increase chances of overtaking.
- The front wing has driver-adjustable flaps. Drivers will be allowed to make two wing adjustments per lap, altering the wing angle over a six-degree range. Again this should help in following cars closely and aid in overtaking.
- There will be no testing allowed after the season has started. The only chance to test is to use the Friday practice. There are four additional engines that can be used for these tests.
- The pit lane will not be closed during safety car periods. So no penalty for pitting for fuel. But there is a limit on how fast you can go when the safety car is out.
There are a lot changes being done to improve overtaking chances. Hopefully the teams are as close together as last year and produce some great overtaking moves. Can not wait for the season to start.
Related posts:
- Worst start to the Formula 1 season by Ferrari
- Changes to Sporting Regulations
- Rule changes for 2010 F1 season
- Safety car rule changes
- Tire situation in Indy GP