Fioravanti LF1

Concept Cars 20 Mar 2009

Presented at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, the Fioravanti LF1 is a futuristic vision for a Formula 1 oriented towards cost reduction, semplicity and efficiency. Among the features is the compact aerodynamic body with integrated wings.

The Fioravanti LF1 was designed thinking about a future Formula 1 regulation, based on more general simplicity.

"Since we think that in a period of heavy economic crisis, in particular for the automotive
world, also the Formula 1 has to be reviewed in its principle.

"Creating more connection
between the F.1 research the road cars production, making the races more interesting with more overtaking manoeuvres still maintaining the Grand Prix a the top of the media global
events."

The vehicle has been designed referring to the next 1.800 cc. turbo engines as recently proposed for the 2012 regulations.

With this has been possible to define a very compact bodywork with less aerodynamic drag and turbulences.

Radiators and intercoolers are designed with forced air using fans in order to reduce the front wheels drag.

18” rims and tyres with dimensions are more similar to the road and racing GT cars, allowing the use of braking systems similar to the ones utilized in the high performance road cars.

Eco-oriented solutions for fuel consumption savings include the of K.E.R.S. (Kinetic Energy Recovery System).

Technical partners of the project are Magneti Marelli, Brembo, Pirelli, Ansys, Coggiola.

Aerodynamics

The inspiring principle of the project has been the reduction of the aerodynamic drag and turbulences. This goal has been reached taking advantage of the ground effect in an
innovative manner, removing the wings as not integrated bodywork elements.

The shape of the central body is characterized from lift-down force ratio close to zero.

The front wing is integrated in the front end and contributes at the same time for the down force and for the reduction of the front wheels drag thanks to the side fairings.

The large rear wing is integrated in the bottom of the vehicle generating consistent down force.

In order to give an optimal ground effect and to keep the vehicle with a constant distance from the ground , we propose a return of the active suspensions use, widely utilized in the production cars.

"The C.F.D. (Computer Fluid Dynamic) study has confirmed that, with a measurement done at
10 meters from the back of the car, the degree of the turbulences generated by the aerodynamic drag is very low.


The Fioravanti LF1 at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show (Source: Autoblog.com)

"Considering the above it could be possible to suggest, at regulation level, the check of the drag energy and degree of turbulence in a transversal section positioned 10 meters from the rear of the car.

"This could allow drivers to do more overtaking in all the circuits, giving them the possibility to decide, more than today, when and how to overtake, allowing battles between several cars and driving tactics that emphasize the driver talent."