The F1 championship management plans to completely abandon wind tunnels used to test the aerodynamics of racing cars from 2030 onwards, instead switching entirely to the use of computed fluid dynamics (CFD).
“I’m already switching completely to CFDs,” Newly said. “Unfortunately, there is a lack of voice to do so, despite the fact that it would lead to good savings.”
Newney adds that “the same old characters” oppose the ban on wind tunnels.
There is still a long way to go until 2030, so Red Bull plans to build a new wind tunnel. Team advisor Helmut Marko has confirmed that the plans will be approved at any time and the new wind tunnel will be ready in two years. Although such tunnels cost a lot, from 50 to 75 million euros, it is needed to improve the chances of fighting for the titles.
New wind tunnels are currently being built by the McLaren and Aston Martin teams and will be completed next spring, meaning they will bring real benefits to the vehicles that will launch in the 2024 season.
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Resources used:
Latest Formula 1 Breaking News – Grandprix.com