Ferrari F60

The 2008 Constructors title winners Ferrari are the first team in Formula 1 to unveil their 2009 car. On the first looks the Ferrari F60 looks like an A1 GP car or Formula 2 car.  Change in rules for the ’09 season means that the F60 is extremely different in appearance and operation compared to its predecessor. The car is aerodynamically very different from last years F2008 to facilitate more overtaking during the race. The front wings are noticeably wider while the rear wing is narrower and higher than earlier versions. According to the new rules set by FIA, the new F60 had to shed its gill like body works. One of the major inclusions into the 2009 rules is the introduction of the KERS i.e. Kinetic Energy Recovery System in F60 developed in conjunction with electronics supplier Magneti Marelli. The KERS system stores the energy generated during the vehicle’s de-acceleration in it, which is then later used to power the engine when the vehicle is accelerated. According to the FIA, the maximum amount of energy that can be stored in the KERS is set to 400kJ per lap. The car also sports brake system designed by Brembo. Another major change is the re-introduction of slick tyres, which will maximize the traction on dry surface but will offer less traction on the wet surface. The front wing also has an adjustable flap which can be adjusted by the driver from his cockpit. Even the engines of the F60 have been reworked to increase their reliability. Thus the new engines will run for around 2500kms before being changed. Even the maximum permitted engine speed has been cut down to 18000rpm. Ferrari guys have really worked hard on the F60 and have given us a better understanding of the new FIA regulations for the 2009 season. The outfit has deviated from their usual christening standards to commemorate their 60th year in Formula1 and hence named the car as F60 instead of F2009. Both the Ferrari drivers, Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikonnen had a short test drive of the F60 and both seemed pretty optimistic about the 2009 season that will start with Australian GP in March.