Melbourne is soon to be in the spotlight again as the start of the grand prix season is about to happen this weekend. Much has been made of the substantial rules changes for this year.
Rule Changes for 2014
The technical regulations for 2014 are undergoing the biggest change in recent history.
- There is a completely new engine formula, with 1.6 litre V6 turbos replacing the 2.4 litre V8s. These will be running through new 8-speed transmissions
- ERS-K gives a boost of 120kW for 33 seconds per lap, replacing KERS which gave 60kW for 6 seconds per lap
- Electronic braking devices to help compensate for the added boost of the new ERS-K
- Eight homologated gear ratios that must be selected at the start of the season by individual teams and used at every round
- Nose design changes to increase collision safety
- Regulated fuel flow to increase fuel efficiency
- Minimum weight increase from 641 kg to 691 kg, which allows for the added technical complexity of the new vehicles
- Exhaust exits have been regulated to effectively end blown exhausts
For more information about the new rules and what the teams are doing about them, follow this link to Craig Scarborough’s fantastic website.
The Aussie Perspective
Australian driver Danial Ricciardo gets his first shot at the big time in a competitive machine, joining 4 time World Drivers Champion Sebastian Vettel at Red Bull. The new RB10 hasn’t had the best of pre-seasons, so Ricciardo’s competitiveness may not be on display until the car is sorted as the year progresses.
