Bite-size tech: Ferrari SF16-H front wing pillars
Arriving in Japan, Ferrari will continue to assess the parts that it trialled in Malaysia, which consisted of a new set of turning vanes, the 'bat-wing' and previously uncaptured front wing pillars.
Giorgio Piola's F1 technical analysis
Giorgio Piola is the preeminent Formula 1 technical journalist. View our full selection of Giorgio's technical illustrative content
It is our understanding that the Scuderia is not only looking for additional pace for the remainder of the season from these parts but perhaps some answers to assist in the development of its 2017 challenger.
The new pillars, depicted on Raikkonen's car, are slightly longer, which means they're also less twisted as they meet the nose too.
This will change how the airflow moves down the car and results in the other changes to the turning vanes and the re-introduction of the bat-wing that we reported on at the last race.
The turning vanes feature three elements (two slots), rather than two elements (one slot) as the designers look to improve the efficiency of the components.
They also feature a L-shaped footplate rather than just a curvature to their surface, inferring a more direct use of the airflow, not only directly affecting the airflow passing by them but also having an impact on other aerodynamic structures such as the Y250 vortex.
It's hoped that what the team learn from these changes can assist with next year's design, especially as that region of the car sees significant regulatory adjustment.
For 2017 the nose must be at least 1050mm long, rather than the 850mm currently allowable, changing with it many of the aerodynamic flow structures around and under the car.
Share Or Save This Story
The fascinating story behind McLaren's most iconic F1 car
Emilia Romagna GP: F1 technical images from Imola's pitlane
The F1 downforce choices that proved key at the Saudi GP
Why "dangerous" Hamilton-Lawson incident in Azerbaijan GP practice hasn't led to change
How the chase to catch Mercedes is unfolding
Lewis Hamilton reprimanded by F1 stewards after Azerbaijan GP practice incident
Why "dangerous" Hamilton-Lawson incident in Azerbaijan GP practice hasn't led to change
Red Bull "finally pinpointing" mysterious car issue highlighted by Max Verstappen for years
LIVE: F1 Azerbaijan GP updates - FP3
How the chase to catch Mercedes is unfolding
How the chase to catch Mercedes is unfolding
What we learned from Thursday practice at the 2026 F1 Azerbaijan GP
A look at McLaren and Audi's Baku F1 updates
Fernando Alonso’s idea to ‘save’ F1 before the V8 return – and how realistic it is
Subscribe and access Motorsport.com with your ad-blocker.
From Formula 1 to MotoGP we report straight from the paddock because we love our sport, just like you. In order to keep delivering our expert journalism, our website uses advertising. Still, we want to give you the opportunity to enjoy an ad-free and tracker-free website and to continue using your adblocker.
Top Comments