Ferrari takes aim at Mercedes-AMG with 2017 SF70H F1 car
Latest car is the one Ferrari hopes will rekindle its success in the sport, after missing out on the drivers’ championship for ten seasons
Ferrari has taken the covers off what it hopes will be the 2017 Formula 1 title-winning car, named the SF70H. It takes full advantage of F1’s recent regulation change, allowing for greater mechanical grip, and so Ferrari has concentrated its efforts on finding the right balance between downforce and drag.
The wider tyres on 2017’s cars (6cm wider at the front, 8cm at the rear) should increase cornering speeds, negating the extra drag that the wider tyres will create.
The SF70H features a lengthened nose as part of the new regulations, plus an arrow-shaped front wing. Complex aerodynamics abound across the car, including a distinctive fin on the engine cover with a mini-wing across the top of it.
Aggressive side pods were designed in harmony with the front crash structure, and feature even more aero goodies in front of them.
With faster cornering speeds a feature of the 2017 regulations, Ferrari has uprated the brakes and suspension in line with this, while the wheel hubs and nuts have been redesigned to aid mechanics during the pit-stops.
Whether the latest Ferrari will have the chops to challenge current top dog Mercedes-AMG Petronas remains to be seen. However the team has a talented pair of drivers in the form of Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel.
Despite this pairing Ferrari had a terrible 2016 season, failing to win a single race. The team will be hoping for more success this time around.
