Ferrari is considered a favorite for the race, but low temperatures remain a concern. Since the beginning of the year, the SF24 has struggled in colder conditions, which could pose a challenge on the iconic Las Vegas Strip.
In the Brazilian Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz faced several difficulties managing the car in rain and cold. Similar challenges could arise in Las Vegas, but Maranello seems to have found a way to work around this problem.
The main issue lies in achieving an optimal setup that allows the cars to perform well despite the drastic drop in nighttime temperatures. Las Vegas, located in the Mojave Desert, experiences a sharp decline in temperatures after sunset, typical of desert climates.
The mathematical model that could be Ferrari’s breakthrough in Las Vegas and beyond
Ferrari has conducted a series of tests in their aerodynamic simulator and with CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) to determine the ideal aerodynamic configuration and mechanical suspension setup. A low-downforce setup, similar to the one used in Monza, will likely be the choice for Las Vegas.
But there’s more: the engineers at Maranello have adopted a novel and potentially ingenious approach. Using data collected last year in the Nevada desert, Ferrari developed a mathematical model for energy and heat transfer on the surface of the tires.
This tire simulation model has already helped address balance issues the team encountered after introducing updates earlier in the season. It has provided insights into tire reactions and behavior under extreme conditions.
In short, this development could represent a turning point for Ferrari, not only for Las Vegas but also with a view toward the future. We will see if this will truly be the ace up the sleeve for the team from Maranello.
Source: f1ingenerale
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