Why did F1 abandon the LED wheel cover plan for 2024?
The idea has been scrapped following the latest F1 commission meeting, and will not be featured in 2024
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LED wheel covers via The Race
For a number of years, there has been consideration given to the notion of incorporating LED wheel covers into cars to provide additional information to fans. The possibility of introducing this technology for racing was even included in the rules, provided that the necessary advancements were made.
During the post-season test in Abu Dhabi in 2021, McLaren experimented with an LED light system on its cars. The team hoped this technology could enhance fans’ comprehension of the events during sessions or races, along with the added bonus of a flashy, modern appearance.
Granted, given the advancement in technological innovations, the potential range of information that could be exhibited through LED lights is boundless. Once the LED device is installed and functioning, the display possibilities are unlimited. From showcasing a car’s position and logos to presenting lap times during qualifying, the options are numerous. Programming the desired display is also a straightforward task. Thus, it seems at first glance like a no-brainer to implement this idea, with all the benefits it carries with regard to entertainment and aesthetics.
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Why was the LED wheel cover plan abandoned?
Following the commission meeting, this proposal for LED lights has been completely scrapped. The 2024 revised technical regulations no longer feature the rule previously allowing for considering LED systems. As a result, implementing such systems has been officially precluded and is no longer a possibility. Article 8.18 of the technical regulations in its initial form had specified that subject to the technological capabilities; the FIA might demand the installation of a revolving LED display panel on each of the four-wheel covers described in Article 3.13.7 to offer visual information to the viewers.
However, despite advancements in technology, one of the major apprehensions with regard to LED systems was their potential to increase the weight of the car, particularly in an area of the vehicle that is sensitive to changes in weight. The shift in wheel size from 13 inches to 18 inches by F1 resulted in a considerable rise in weight, particularly with the front wheels being 2.5kg heavier and the rear ones being 3kg heavier.
This change was coming at a time when numerous teams were facing difficulties in meeting the minimum weight requirement for their cars, where for 2023, it has been increased from 795kg to 798 due to an inability of teams to meet the prior number. This makes it evident that teams were not keen on increasing the weight further by incorporating LED systems, sacrificing performance efficiency, and meeting aesthetic standards.
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Justin P Joy
(4923 Articles Published)