Friday, March 14, 2008

New F1 Regulations 2008

There have been some changes in the regulations this season.This is a brief account of all these changes.

Engine-No change in the regulations related to engine changes.One engine needs to last for 2 races.If an engine is changed before a race,a penalty of 10 places on the starting grid will be awarded.However,the engine can be changed if a driver fails to complete a race due to some engine failure.

Gearbox-The new regulations say that a gearbox has to last for four races.Penalty for a gearbox change is 5 places on the starting grid.However,a gearbox can be changed if a mechanical failure prevents the driver from finishing the race.

No more Traction Control-A Traction Control System basically is something which is designed to prevent loss of traction and the control of a car when excessive throttle or steering is applied.According to the new regulations,every car must have a standard ECU(Engine Control Unit) issued by FIA.This ECU does not have traction control capabilities.This can be a problem for some drivers as they'll have to be extra cautious.

With traction control,drivers can apply full throttle and turn simultaneously without losing traction.Without traction control,they just can't go flat out on turns without losing control of the car.The 2008 season will be a true test of the skills of the drivers though I feel that driving with TC isn't easy either.

Traction control has always been a big topic of discussion.Different people have different views about it.I personally feel that TC should be used and checking if a driver is able to drive like a machine is pointless.

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