F1 has always been pioneering when it comes to tech. These cars are designed to be the best in the entire world, so it is no surprise that many features have made their way into everyday cars over the years. This article will look at some tech that is commonly found in your average car these days that started out in F1.

Carbon Fiber

Many desirable brands like BMW, Porsche and Aston Martin use carbon fiber chassis as it is a lightweight yet strong material. This was first used by McLaren who introduced the first carbon fibre chassis in 1981 with the MP4/1. The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren then became the first road car to use the same material for a chassis years later.

Paddle Shifters

Paddle shifterscan be a common feature these days as a way to change gears without having to take your hand off the steering wheel. Paddle shifters are available in automatic cars and can be used in “manual mode”, which involves using switches that are right behind the steering wheel to shift up or down.

In the 1981 F1 season, Ferrari became the first team to use paddle shifters and found that shifts were able to be completed a lot faster and with less wear and tear. 8 years later, Ferrari introduced paddle shifters to road cars with their F335.

KERS

Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS)is commonly used in modern vehicles as a way to make them more fuel efficient. Essentially, this is a technology that is capable of recovering kinetic energy from the heat created during the braking process. This was first used in F1 with the ability to give the vehicle a power boost by an electrical motor feeding the energy to the battery.

Today, KERS is used commonly in high-end electric cars.

Active Suspension

Active suspension is a common feature in cars today and involves adjusting the suspension with a switch to adapt to the road conditions. This can allow for a smoother experience and greater traction, which can help when it comes to cornering andreducing car tyre wear.

There are a number of F1 teams that had used active suspension before it became mainstream, but it was the 1992 Williams FW14B that demonstrated the potential for this tech on their way to a championship.

Steering Wheel Buttons

Steering wheel buttons are handy features that allow motorists to keep their eyes on the road. Obviously, this is even more important when travelling at blistering speeds, so it is no surprise that steering wheel buttons first appeared in F1 dating right back to the 70s.

These are a few of the main technologies that you will find in regular road cars today that started out in F1.

F1 has always been pioneering when it comes to engineering, tech and design, so it is no surprise that so many technologies have become common on everyday cars over the years.

Written by Nathan Rogers

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Formula 1 is the world’s top motor racing category, which could not be left out of the sustainable equation when the changes in competition around it are clearly reflected, so for months it has been working on a plan to reduce its negative environmental impact, with the year 2030 as its final goal.

The 2022 season generated endless emotions thanks to the rivalry between Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc, which gradually gave way in favor of the Dutchman, leaving room for another battle for the runner-up position against the Mexican Sergio ‘Checo’ Perez. Now, beyond the sporting aspect, Formula 1 has decided to recap what it has done in terms of sustainability in order to meet its goals for 2030.

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Sustainable Progress

Formula 1 implemented an online part of its television broadcasts, significantly reducing the carbon footprint created by travel and transportation of personnel. It also made progress in the construction of a regionalized calendar to reduce CO2 emissions as a result of logistical travel between races.

In addition, F1 hired sustainability specialists to reduce emissions from within the organization, redesigned cargo containers to maximize jet fuel efficiency, used more energy from renewable sources at races (solar panels, biofuels), and encouraged local communities and charities to donate leftover food after events.

It also reduced the use of single-use plastics, prioritized the use of public transportation and continued to develop sustainable fuel that will be 100% environmentally friendly by 2026. In addition, with a view to 2023, 50% sustainable fuel will be implemented for Formula 2 and Formula 3, while the fuel will be designed to be applied in the automotive sector.

Finally, in social matters, an F1 academy was launched to provide better opportunities for female drivers, the scholarship scheme was extended to 50 students by 2025, in addition to increasing the number of F1 apprentices and scholarship holders from underprivileged sectors.

Written by | Ronald Ortega

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For this reason, the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is working on several plans and projects to reduce greenhouse gases. One of these strategies has been to partner with Siemens, adopting solutions from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio that will support the organization’s efforts in all its championships, including Formula 1.

In this way, Siemens Xcelerator will allow the FIA greater vision and clarity when designing vehicles and regulations that significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions, as well as reducing energy consumption.

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One Step Closer to Sustainability

“As innovation and sustainability are two of the FIA’s most important guiding principles, we are pleased to welcome Siemens as an official supplier in adopting its sustainable software solutions for our work in Formula 1 and other motorsport activities,” said Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President.

“Innovative collaborations like this underline our commitment to becoming net zero carbon by 2030 and show how motorsport can be part of the solution to the challenges we face,” he continued.

However, the FIA details that this partnership builds on previous collaborations through previous projects that have served for the digital transformation of the highest governing body of world motorsport, where they have applied Siemens’ strategies to improve urban mobility, safety, efficiency, affordability, accessibility and reliability.

Similarly, Cedrik Neike, member of the board of Siemens AG and CEO of Digital Industries, expressed his opinion on the matter after joining F1 in terms of sustainable progression.

“Motorsport and sustainability sound like a contradiction. But they can coexist using the right technologies. If motorsport achieves carbon neutrality, any industry can do it. With this collaboration, we plan to influence public perceptions and promote sustainable mobility. We are delighted to have been selected as the official supplier to help the FIA meet its sustainability goals,” he said.

Written by | Ronald Ortega

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For several weeks, there was speculation that Audi would enter F1. Now, the fact that it has been confirmed for 2026, the year in which the series will take an important step towards sustainability, confirms the north of the Volkswagen Group brand for the future as a company and sporting entity.

It should be noted that Audi will not only be part of the starting grid as a team, but will also be an engine manufacturer. The bet of the firm of the four rings aims to enter the series and be competitive through its own resources in order not to depend on other engine manufacturers.

Related content: Formula 1 Reveals Details on New Engine to be Used from 2026 for Sustainable Transition

In addition, manufacturing its own engines will have the advantage of using Formula 1 as a rolling test laboratory, where the technology applied in the single-seater racing car will be demanded at the highest level, to later take it to street production vehicles, understanding that the future of the automotive market aims to be electric and sustainable within a few years.

“I want to officially announce that Audi has been officially registered as an official engine manufacturer. We will start racing in Formula 1 from 2026,” said Markus Duesmann, CEO of the brand at the official unveiling of the company’s single-seater concept.

Audi is undoubtedly betting on Formula 1 as a catalyst towards sustainability, given that from 2026 the electric motor will be almost as powerful as the fuel-powered power unit.

“In view of the great technological leaps toward sustainability that this competition proposes for 2026, we can speak of a transformation toward a new Formula 1. And Audi wants to actively support this journey. A close link between our Formula 1 project and AUDI AG’s Technical Development department will enable synergies to be established,” says Oliver Hoffmann, Technical Development Director of the company.

Written by | Ronald Ortega

The post Formula 1 Sustainability to Boost with Audi’s Arrival in 2026 appeared first on Green Racing News.

Hybrid power units have been used in the category since 2014. On the other hand, a few months ago it became known the introduction of a sustainable fuel from the 2026 season, and recently, F1 revealed details about the new engine that will accompany the “great circus” from that year.

The next-generation power unit has been described under three fundamental pillars: “incredible power, sustainable fuels and handling innovation”. These features will usher in an important chapter in the history of Formula 1, which has officially raced since 1950.

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Incredible Power

Formula 1 has confirmed that the new engine will deliver around 1,000 horsepower. Also, the electric motor will be responsible for providing more power, the new MGU-K will dish out triple the amount of power, while the MGU-H will be eliminated.

Sustainable Fuels

This power unit will be powered by a sustainable fuel, which can be perfectly used in street cars. It will drive a carbon neutral circle, which will match the carbon used for its manufacture with emissions, highlighting that there will be no release of additional CO2 emissions.

Driving Innovation

Last but not least, F1 details that the 2026 engine will use less than half the fuel used in the 2013 power units, reflecting a significant change in consumption reduction. Similarly, there will be high voltage energy properly equipped in safe cells, in addition, the materials used in the battery will be destined for recycling.

Written by | Ronald Ortega

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The pilots of the category founded by businessman Alejandro Agag have been in charge of confronting the voices that detract from the merit of the tournament, and have even dared to affirm that there is a higher level in urban circuits than in the “big circus”.

One of the racers who defended the electrified competition was the representative of Jaguar Racing, Mitch Evans, who assured that Formula E is better than F1.

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The New Zealander pointed out that “there is a perception that Formula 1 drivers are the best in the world, but I think, on average, if you took everyone, I would say Formula E is stronger. There have been some examples now of guys who came through and had a bit of difficulty at the beginning,” he maintained in statements reviewed by Eurosport.

“You see guys like Antonio Giovinazzi and he has found it very, very difficult. In the first race we almost beat him. I’ve beaten a lot of the Formula One guys I’ve raced against, so just because they’re in F1 doesn’t mean they’re better than us,” he added.

Evans explained that between the two categories the cars are much more similar. “In Formula One, there are only a few cars that have the ability to win a race or a championship, whereas, with us, I can literally show up this weekend and win or just lose it a little bit and finish 15th or 16th.”

He emphasized that the fusion of technology and sustainability with the brands and drivers involved make for a strong and very competitive tournament.

Positive Changes

One of the points in favor of Formula E is that it has been able to listen to criticism and correct in time to evolve as a tournament. For example, Evans refers to the new qualifying format that was introduced at the start of season 8 and has made the series even more exciting.

 “If you look at the entry list, the level at which both teams and drivers are operating is a serious level. I think a big difference from this year obviously has been the qualifying format, which shook things up,” he emphasized.

He stated that consistency and strategy for efficient energy management will be key to fighting for the championship.

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With the years 2030 and 2050 as fundamental pillars of decarbonization, Formula 1 is working to find a way to reduce emissions, where finding sustainable fuel alternatives is on the table of pending tasks, given that gasoline is what gives life to the cars and generates a unique sound that attracts its fans.

Undoubtedly, a high caliber challenge is being addressed by the Grand Circus, and it is expected that work will continue towards the main goal dictated by the Paris Agreement to completely eradicate carbon emissions by 2050. Faced with all these challenges, Formula 1 has released its sustainable report for 2030.

Related content | No to biofuel, yes to electrification: What Formula 1 should do from Nico Rosberg’s perspective

Progress

Formula 1 revealed that it is working on the development of a sustainable fuel, which raises the question of whether it will be able to maintain the sound emitted by the hybrid power units of the category, although beyond that, the positive side focuses on knowing the efforts on the part of the series to replace gasoline.

However, it was announced that it can be used by current road vehicles without requiring any modification in this regard, also contributing off-track and enhancing the next engines to be used in F1.

Also, it incorporated remote TV production during races to emit less carbon. The category’s offices are powered by renewable energy sources, as well as the introduction of cargo containers and efficient aircraft.

What’s Next

Future plans include developing an ultra-efficient, low-emission cargo strategy, exploring options to involve fans in reducing emissions, as well as structuring a more environmentally friendly calendar. For example, avoiding holding a race in Brazil and then flying to Saudi Arabia.

Written by | Ronald Ortega

The post Formula 1 Unveils Sustainable Progress Update for 2030 appeared first on Green Racing News.

On this occasion, DS Techeetah driver Jean-Eric Vergne took the opportunity to throw a little dart directly to the current F1 champion Max Verstappen, by pointing out that the “Grand Circus” monarch would not dominate the electric series in the same way.

“I’ll be honest, if I had raced against Max in F1, I wouldn’t have beaten him. He’s at the peak of his talent right now and seems to be unbeatable. But I’m sure he wouldn’t be so unbeatable in Formula E,” Vergne told the F1 Insider portal.

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He assured that Formula E demands more concentration due to the energy management they must implement in order to be able to endure the entire course stipulated in the races. “Here your brain is more active than in F1. Driving these cars is like playing chess,” Vergne said.

“Sometimes you win races and you don’t know what you’ve done to deserve it. At others you don’t win and you don’t know what you’re doing wrong either. The trick is just to focus on yourself to get the best out of your car, which is hard work,” added the Frenchman.

He stressed that in order to figure in the championship it is necessary to spend a lot of time with the engineers at the factory and do a lot of work with the simulator. “In fact, I work more now than in Formula 1. I would say Formula E drivers spend a lot more time in the simulator than in any other category,” Vergne noted.

A Legacy Beyond the Sporting

Vergne also touched on all that is extra-sporting about participating in Formula E, due to its values focused on sustainability and electromobility.

“It feels good to be part of Formula E, we are ambassadors for electric mobility. We race in the most beautiful cities and demonstrate what electric vehicles are capable of. So we not only race, but we also motivate this movement. I think that’s an important thing, because this is what the future is all about,” he said.

The French driver also pointed out that in 20 years there will no longer be gasoline-powered cars, which he believes is the path humanity must follow to protect the environment. “Brands must make the best cars in this field and motorsport is becoming a laboratory again. And Formula E is the best laboratory in this sense, because the vehicles of tomorrow are being developed here.”

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Through an event held by Julius Bär, one of the sponsors of the FE, the German talked about what Formula 1 plans to do. “I see that F1 will bet on synthetic fuels, which for mobility is not going to be the best solution,” Rosberg sentenced adding that they can be relevant for other sectors such as cargo ships, trucks or airplanes.

“Will it be relevant enough for Formula 1 to use biofuels? Maybe, as Alejandro Agag said, they will have to electrify,” he emphasized. For Rosberg, both categories can help each other without detracting from the other, asserting that over time. “There will be a natural coexistence.”

Related content: Extreme E and Formula E Sustainability Director Discusses Differences with Formula 1

On the other hand, Alejandro Agag was also present at the Julius Bär event backing up Rosberg’s assertions, and while he did not state that Formula E and Formula 1 would work together, he left the door open to such a possibility. “It could happen, but I don’t know. I am working to fulfill one of my main objectives: to find a way that Formula 1 and Formula E can exist in parallel.”

Agag stressed the fact that if Formula E sets out to be faster than Formula 1, it will be, they would just run out of energy very quickly, but in terms of power and potential, the Gen3 vehicles have enough endorsement to outperform the single-seaters in the Grand Circus. “Someday we’ll be faster, we could be faster already, put four engines, one in each wheel, and go faster than F1 for 10 minutes.”

Nico Rosberg’s Footprint

The German won the title in the top category of world motorsport in 2016 after an intense battle against his teammate, Lewis Hamilton. After that he decided to retire and now serves as one of sustainability pioneers, both inside and outside motorsports. He is currently the CEO of Rosberg X Racing, champion team of the first Extreme E season.

Writte by | Ronald Ortega

The post No to Biofuel, Yes to Electrification: What Formula 1 Should Do from Nico Rosberg’s Perspective appeared first on Green Racing News.

Rappi appeared as the main sponsor of the British team, as the logo of the South American brand was reflected on the side pontoons, as well as on the fireproof suits of their pilots, Daniel Ricciardo and Lando Norris. McLaren left Brazil with a unit thanks to the Briton tenth position. On the other hand, the Australian finished nineteenth.

“Part of the objectives of Rappi is to make life easier for our users, so this campaign becomes F1 so that they receive their deliveries in less than ten minutes. It is a privilege for us to transcend borders once again and achieve what many brands would like: to be part of the Brazilian Grand Prix ”, said Julián Mayorca, Head of Global Alliances and Strategy at Rappi.

Related content: How F1 Develops the Next Generation of Sustainable Fuels

McLaren: Electric Transition

As a British team, the paths to a sustainable transition are on the McLaren Racing table. In addition, the recent union of the Woking team to Extreme E, the first 100% electrified SUVs series, reflects the example of what the renowned brand is considering in the automotive sector.

Emma Gilmour and Tanner Foust will be the drivers and they will be ready to make their official debut in the 2022 season and transfer McLaren name to the green series created by Alejandro Agag.

About Rappi

Rappi is a Latin-American company and the first SuperApp in the region. It was founded in 2015 by Simón Borrero, Sebastian Mejía, and Felipe Villamarin and today is present in 9 countries and more than 200 cities. They are a young Latin American team of technology entrepreneurs with a mission to drive progress in the region through their platform for digital commerce.

Written by | Ronald Ortega

The post Rappi Was a McLaren Sponsor During the F1 Brazilian GP appeared first on Green Racing News.