The Spanish Grand Prix has long been a pivotal point in the Formula 1 season, where teams introduce numerous updates to improve their cars. In 2024, the cars competing in the championship have already received substantial updates, with Red Bull and Ferrari well into their second evolutionary step. Both teams have introduced a new floor, and we’ll explore the differences between the Ferrari SF-24 and Red Bull RB20.
Red Bull and Ferrari have recently introduced the second specification of their floors, with some modifications visible on the surface and others not. By examining the visible portion of the floor, we can understand some of the differences between the specifications used on the RB20 and SF-24. The first differences are noticeable in the entry slide area of the floor. Between Ferrari and Red Bull, you can already see a different approach to managing the inlet to start creating underbody depression. The SF-24 has a slightly lower lip with a gentler descent compared to the RB20, which is higher and has a steeper descent. Another differentiating factor is the side anti-intrusion cone, which is lower and integrated on the RB20, and slightly higher and more prominent on the SF-24.
Source: f1ingenerale
Among other differences, we can also see different designs of the external fences, which guide the airflow from the front wheels. On the RB20, the fence is much longer and has a more pronounced inward tilt, while Ferrari’s is taller. Moving along the airflow direction, the external fence of the Red Bull has two cuts in the terminal area. The RB20 aims to generate a vortex to improve the air push towards the rear.
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At the exit of the underbody flows, Ferrari has arrived in Spain with a new diffuser and keel. The new Ferrari specification features a narrower keel for greater and more powerful air extraction from the floor. Comparing it to the Red Bull specification, the RB20 diffuser is extremely refined to seek any minimal help from pressure variations in the underbody. However, Red Bull has a keel that extends further back, with a slightly smaller expansion space.
From the photo, we can also partially compare the beam wings of the two cars. The SF-24 single-seater aims for higher load input with the first element, which has a significantly longer chord compared to the Red Bull specification. On the reigning champion car, the engineers preferred a more constant aerodynamic load distribution through two short-chord elements.
Source: f1ingenerale
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