Over the years, Formula 1 has been a symbol of innovation and advanced technology. While regulations, engines, and car designs have evolved, the most significant changes have been in safety. In addition to structural measures like the survival cell and the Halo, various approaches have been adopted to ensure comprehensive safety.
One such example is the Marshal safety buttons on F1 cars. These buttons, marked with an “E” and an “N,” are clearly visible on the car chassis. Their purpose is to help Marshals operate as safely as possible when recovering a vehicle.
The role of Marshals in Formula 1 is vital—Grand Prix events couldn’t happen without them. Becoming a Marshal requires training to prepare for various scenarios that can occur on track. Despite their expertise, F1 cars are highly complex, and these buttons allow Marshals to quickly and intuitively understand the car and driver’s status. A video from Mercedes highlights the usefulness of these additional safety functions.
The “E” Button on F1 Cars
The first Marshal safety button on F1 cars is the “E” button. Present on the car’s sides since 1970, its original purpose was to indicate the presence of an onboard fire extinguisher. This extinguisher protects the driver and the power unit in the event of a fire. Activating it involves pulling a lever next to the “E” mark.
Since the advent of the turbo-hybrid era, the “E” button also serves another purpose related to the car’s electrical system. Pulling the same lever not only activates the extinguisher but also isolates the car’s electrical system. This includes the fuel pump and hybrid system, ensuring the car is in its safest possible state.
The “N” Button on F1 Cars
The second button, marked with an “N,” is located on the car’s chassis, just ahead of the driver’s position. This button’s function is to put the car into neutral gear (hence, the “Neutral Button”). It works through a small accumulator that powers an independent system to disengage the clutch.
If a car is stuck in gear during recovery, pressing this button allows it to be shifted into neutral. This makes it easier for Marshals to move the car off the track.
The Electrical Status Indicator
With the introduction of hybrid technology, F1 cars now house an 800-volt battery pack. While this system offers significant advantages, it also presents risks for drivers, mechanics, and Marshals. While teams can monitor the car’s electrical status continuously, this is more challenging for Marshals.
To address this, an electrical status indicator is placed above the driver’s head and near the “N” button. This light, visible from all angles, glows green when the car is safe to touch. If the system is active, the light is orange (or purple in the pit lane).
If the light is red, the car is unsafe to touch. In such cases, both Marshals and team mechanics must wear protective gloves.
The Medical Condition Indicator
Another safety feature on F1 cars is the medical condition indicator. This light activates after an accident. It typically flashes slowly, but in severe incidents, it flashes more intensely.
This intense flashing occurs when the car and driver experience high G-force impacts. It signals Marshals to approach the driver with caution and indicates that the Medical Car’s intervention is necessary for further assessments.
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