Nelson Piquet is for the ban on traction control

For the third driver of the ING Renault F1 Team, the removal of traction control is good news. The 2008 cars will indeed emphasize driving skills.

Nelson, what was your reaction when you drove a single-seater equipped with anti-skid for the first time?

« I was surprised by the ease of driving this driving aid provided. The car was less twitchy, and it was possible to run over the curbs without worry: I stayed on track and could accelerate confidently. The electronics would then take over and adjust the power according to the grip. It was effective on the stopwatch but didn’t require extraordinary skill. »

And when did you take to the track with a single-seater in the 2008 configuration?

« I thought it would be very difficult, and I was pleasantly surprised. In fact, I come from the GP2 category, where the car benefits from significant aerodynamic load and slick tires, without any driving aids. There was work to be done behind the wheel! In some ways, controlling an F1 without traction control is less difficult than taming a GP2. It is also true that the transition to V8 engines helps make the transition smoother for F1 drivers. A V10 with no traction control must be much more brutal, thus more difficult to master. »

Did you have to change your driving style?

« What is certain is that you don’t drive a 2008 car like a 2007 car! Where it was possible to place the car where you wanted it before, you will need to be much more vigilant. You will need to control skidding much more, and be careful with the right foot. For the drivers, that said, it’s the return of fun. Of course, lap times will be a bit less competitive for a while, but I am convinced they will gradually reach last season’s values. It’s just a matter of getting used to the new configuration and finding your bearings. »

On the set-up side, should certain parameters also be modified?

« Of course. It will be necessary to adjust the car to this new driving style. For example, a softer rear suspension will be needed to maximize traction. It will also be important to closely monitor tire wear, especially when following another competitor and attempting to overtake them. That said, one thing is certain: a good car with traction control will remain so when it is without it. »

According to the ING Renault F1 Team