Although some teams were reluctant to do so, the FIA waved the underbody changes through. Formula 1 is also dealing with the issue of roll bars
The FIA World Motor Sport Council has approved the planned underbody changes to Formula 1 regulations for 2023. They should help curb the phenomenon of “porpoising” that occurred this year.
Formula 1’s switch to ground effect cars as part of the radical overhaul of the technical regulations for 2022 had caused the cars to bounce on the straights. A number of teams – notably reigning world champions Mercedes – suffered from this and denounced it as a safety issue.
Possible changes were then discussed, which the WMSC has now approved. As of the Belgian Grand Prix at the end of the month, stricter measures are to take effect with regard to the rigidity requirements for the underbody planks and runners.
From 2023, the edges of the vehicle floors will then be raised by 15 millimeters, while the diffuser channel will also be raised and its edges stiffened. The FIA also requires an additional sensor to be placed on the ground to monitor vehicle sway.
The federation insists that despite the changes, “any impact on the construction of the teams’ mechanical components will be avoided”.
Changes to roll bars from 2023
Changes to the cars’ roll bars will also be introduced next year as a direct result of Alfa Romeo driver Zhou Guanyu’s serious accident at the British Grand Prix. It broke on the first impact.
After an investigation, the FIA decided to make changes for 2023 in this case as well. For example, the tip of the roll bar needs to be modified to reduce the risk of it digging into the asphalt in an incident similar to Zhou’s.
In addition, the minimum height for the center of gravity of the roll bar on which the homologation test is carried out will be adjusted. And there will be a new homologation test to better test the roll bars against unfavorable loads. It should then be completely revised by 2024.