The most recent significant aerodynamic upgrades introduced by the Ferrari technicians this season have not been implemented without issues, as the SF24 single-seater now exhibits bouncing at high speeds. This problem is not due to a mismatch between simulator and on-track data but rather stems from the upgrade working too well with the existing platform of the SF24.
The Italian side has managed to generate more downforce with the new aerodynamic package, which includes a completely redesigned floor and diffuser. Yet the current suspension setup, both front and rear, cannot adequately handle the increased downforce, whereas the original suspension configuration provided a good balance.
Following the reintroduction of ground effect F1 cars two years ago, the efficiency of the aerodynamic concept, where the most downforce is generated under the car, depends on an equally efficient suspension configuration to counteract the bouncing. The updates introduced at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona by the Maranello team have disrupted this balance by the increased downforce, raising doubts about whether the existing design concept can compensate for the changes on the suspension side.
The suspension of a Formula 1 car is a crucial part of its overall design, and even minor adjustments can significantly impact the car’s performance. Ferrari succeeded in achieving more downforce, but it may not have fully anticipated the trade-offs involved. Should the Ferrari engineers and technicians have realized that this direction would lead to bouncing problems and in fact reduce the overall performance? Maybe not.
During the last two seasons, teams have acknowledged that simulating porpoising is extremely challenging, meaning Ferrari only realized it had issues when the car was tested on the track.
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