A concept for the future of Formula 1

Like the established F1 teams that had to start from scratch for 2009, Fioravanti, an Italian company specializing in design and prototype construction, conducted a study on what the future of race cars could be. It is an innovative concept car, designed with environmental impact in mind.

This car, named LF1, is not intended for mass production but is an idea aimed at demonstrating how ecology and competition can come together in the future.

LF1 was designed with an 1800 cc turbo engine, as recently proposed in the 2012 regulations. With this engine, it was possible to define a very thin and compact bodywork that generates less drag and aerodynamic turbulence. Additional power will be provided with an advanced KERS solution that is closer to production car technologies than current systems.

The car’s aerodynamics generate very little drag but still provide good downforce thanks to an innovative use of the ground effect. The traditional front and rear wings have been removed and are an integral part of the car itself. The front wing is very close to the ground and creates a lot of downforce on the front axle, while the camber of the wheels reduces drag. The downforce on the rear axle is generated by a very low wing, similar to the one used on the Lotus 80.

Fioravanti also offers active suspension, allowing for a constant ground clearance and thus optimal diffuser support. With simulations supported by CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics), the team demonstrated that cars could easily follow each other closely, thus facilitating overtaking.

The Italian design company states in a press release that the current economic crisis is the ideal time to revise the concept of building an F1. There is a need to increase the links with the research done for production cars, with the aim of making the races more interesting, with more overtaking while maintaining the prestige and popularity of the F1 Grand Prix.