New plans for 2019 Formula 1 season Rule changes for 2019, laying the groundwork for wholescale changes due in 2021, make the cars look noticeably different – with aerodynamic alterations intended to improve overtaking opportunities New rear wing Higher, wider, simpler wing to promote closer racing Height increase: 20mm Width increase: 100mm Larger wing creates bigger hole in air – benefits cars trying to slipstream behind 950mm 2018 1,050mm 2019 DRS opening increased by 20mm Boosts potential power by 25% Rear wing endplate lights Additional LED on either side of traditional rear central light, to increase visibility of cars in poor weather. Must be illuminated when driver using intermediate or wet tyres New barge boards Repositioned, smaller, less powerful and less aerodynamically disruptive Height reduction: 150mm Moved forward: 100mm Improves airflow from front wing and reduces turbulent airflow from rear of car 2018 2019 New brake ducts Simplified design reduces complex aerodynamic features – less downforce from disturbed air means less choppy wake for cars close behind 2018 2019 New front wing As rear wing – higher, wider, simpler structure Width increase: 200mm Height increase: 20mm Moved forward: 25mm Complex endplates that outwash airflow around front tyres, banned. Simpler design means almost full width of wing is given to generating downforce Stronger helmet Vital safety benefits include advanced ballistic protection and increased energy absorption Front visor lowered: 10mm To reduce risk of injury from impact debris Shell: Advanced composite materials ensure improved resistance to crushing and penetration 2018 2019 ADDITIONAL CHANGES Biometric gloves: Sensors monitor driver’s pulse rate and blood oxygen levels in event of crash Increased fuel allowance: Up from 105kg to 110kg – allows engine to run at full power at all times Weight: Driver’s weight considered separately to car. Minimum car weight (without fuel) up from 733kg to 740kg. At least 80kg of that must be made up of driver, seat and driving equipment Tyre colours: Range of nine tyre colours used in 2018 are gone (fans found it hard to follow). Pirelli have cut it back to just three: Red: Soft Yellow: Medium White: Hard Multiple under-wing strakes limited to two each side 2018 1,800mm 2019 2,000mm Sources: Formula One World Championship, Giorgio Piola © GRAPHIC NEWS