2009 F1 Rules published!

[C-speed]

Ok, so it seems that every year, the FIA decides to make some changes to the rules... when will they ever be satisfied??? Granted, IMO, F1 is the TOP of the food chain when it comes to auto racing, but c'mon. You'd figure they would test the 'proposed' changes thoroughly before putting them into affect (like the stupid 1 set of tires/race deal )

Anyways, the new '09 rules seems to have its pro's and con's. I'm still not too sure about the "thermal energy" they are trying to introduce.. but what the heck..

If you haven't read the new rules, here's a snip:

"There are also significant changes in the size of the cars with the maximum width increasing from 1800mm to 2000mm and the minimum width being no less than 1980mm, which more or less standardises the cars. Wheels will increase from a maximum of 355mm at the front to 365mm and at the rear from 380mm to 460mm, putting more rubber on the road.

There are changes to the bodywork rules with an increase in the allowed width between the wheels. It is significant that the maximum bodywork behind the rear wheels is being increased to 2000mm up from the current 1000mm. This will mean that there is more scope for creating downforce and ground effect. There are complicated new rules about the way in which rear wings can operate with new measuring techniques and insistence on rigid supports. The weight remains much the same, moving from 600kg to 605kg. The KERS devices are the only place where enregy can be stored and these must never have more than 60kW and energy released must not exceed 400kJ in the course of one lap.

There will be FIA-designated electronic control units and these may only use software that is FIA-approved. In addition to that competitors must have a means of removing all fuel from the car. Voic eradio communication must be open and accessible to both the FIA and, where appropriate, broadcasters. The cockpits will be fitted with red, blue and yellow lights to give drivers information concerning track signals or conditions. There will also be a warning light that will be linked to the FIA accident data recorder which will indicate the severity of an accident so that rescue crews will be immediately aware if the impact was a dangerous one.
Print News Story"

Sounds like they are going give the cars A LOT more grip - contrary to what I heard a couple weeks ago that the 09 chassis's will have half the downforce to what they currently have. :shrug: ?

Anyways... GO HONDA!