Layout & General Components of an F1 Car (Part 1): Introduction

As most people know, Formula 1 is considered to be the pinnacle of motorsport. Having its origins set in early 20th century in Grand Prix racing, it wasn't till 1950 that the Formula 1 World Championship was set up. Cars since then have changed quite dramatically. Gone are the days when Formula One cars looked like sleek rounded tubes, instead they have bulges, wings and side pod's.

        

Comparison of the 1934 Mercedes W25 & the 2011 Mercedes GP MGP W02

The modern Formula One car is divided into 6 Sections:

• Powertrain (Engine, Cooling & Transmission)
• Suspension
• Steering
• Aerodynamics/Bodywork
• Electronics
• Tires

The basic layout of todays cars are that the engine is mounted be behind the driver, with drive going to the rear wheels; radiators mounted in the side pods and air being taken from above the drivers helmet. Below is an overhead diagram showing the important component’s location within the car.

Component Locations

Red = Engine, Blue = Transmission, Yellow = Suspension, Orange = Steering Green = Cooling

The reasoning behind each of these component’s position has meticulously thought out reasoning behind it. But more about that when we come to those components.

Next Time on D1G F1 Technical:
Evolution of an F1 Car, how grand prix cars turned into the low, sleek racers of science.