Fast Five: Ferrari locks in launch date for 2024 car, The revolutionary technology that could transform motorsport, and other big updates

Ferrari locks in launch date for 2024 car

Ferrari will launch its 2024 Formula 1 car, chassis 676, on February 13, a day ahead of its 2023 schedule, as Team Principal Frederic Vasseur revealed at a media event. The decision aims to provide an extra day of preparation before the Bahrain pre-season test. The team, recovering from a challenging 2023 season with the SF-23 car, seeks to manage expectations for the upcoming season and plans to deliver results in March rather than making promises during the Christmas season.

Click here to read the full article by Taylor Powling (motorsportweek.com)

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The revolutionary technology that could transform motorsport

In April 2024, the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) will debut a field of fully autonomous racing cars at Yas Marina, featuring ten teams with a $2.25 million prize purse. The Dallara Super Formula SF23 development car, devoid of a cockpit and traditional controls, relies on sophisticated sensors and AI technology to drive itself. Enrico Natalizio, chief researcher of ARRC, explained the car's perception system using seven cameras and three LIDARs, highlighting the competition's focus on software development rather than hardware. A key aspect is the car's ability to learn and adapt, aiming to achieve superhuman performance levels by eliminating human weaknesses and emotions. While concerns exist about the spectator appeal without human-driven drama, A2RL believes its unique approach offers a different kind of experience, emphasizing the role of teams and the evolving ecosystem.

Click here to read the full article by Thomas Maher (planetf1.com)

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Top contenders for Audi seat in 2026 

Audi's entry into F1 in 2026 seems imminent, with Sauber preparing for the arrival of the German manufacturer in line with F1's 2026 rules reset. Potential drivers for the Swiss-based team, linked for 2026 or even 2025, include Liam Lawson, whose impressive performances with AlphaTauri in 2023 make him a compelling option for Audi. Other contenders are Nico Hulkenberg, valued for his experience and rare evergreen qualities Esteban Ocon, possibly seeking a change from Alpine's challenges, Pierre Gasly, displaying consistent advantages over Ocon, and Alex Albon, deserving of a better opportunity than Williams can offer. Carlos Sainz, Sebastian Vettel, Valtteri Bottas, Zhou Guanyu, Mick Schumacher, and Theo Pourchaire are considered outsiders, with varying reasons for their likelihood or unlikelihood as Audi drivers.

Click here to read the full article by Oliver Harden (planetf1.com)

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Red Bull team shares insights 

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In the latest episode of Talking Bull, the Official Oracle Red Bull Racing Podcast with HP Poly, Sporting Director Jonathan Wheatley and Senior Engineer Rich Wolverson join the conversation. Both are key members of the team involved with the pit crew, and in this edition, they casually discuss their roles, challenges, and some cool stuff they've done.

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Why F1 engines can't operate upside down

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Formula One engines are not designed to operate upside down, and the next question might be, why does this matter? Former racer Scott Mansell has attempted to drive an F1 car upside down in a tunnel. While an F1 car and its engine may seem like the obvious choice for this stunt, there's a twist to this scenario.