I want to do some simple spreadsheet calculations on how the gap between two cars changes on a straight, both for 2016 and 2017. So before i start, i want to discuss the parameters to consider.
What do you think about the assumed data?
2016
power: 850 hp (rear wheel power in the race)
mass: 750 kg (mid race)
clA: 4*cdA (coefficient of lift cl * frontal area A)
crr: 0,015 (coefficient of rolling resistance)
vmax: 350 km/h
-> cdA 1,05 m² (coefficient of drag cd * frontal area A)
DRS effect: 10% drag reduction
2017
power: 875 hp (up a bit from 2016)
mass: 770 kg (increased min weight)
cdA: 1,15 m² (~+5%)
clA: 4*cdA
crr: 0,165 (wider tyres)
vmax: < 350 km/h
DRS effect: the same 10%. The rear wing will be wider but the the total drag will also rise
2016 and 2017
Drafting effect: d is the distance between the front wings of the two cars
drag factor drafting for trailing car:
d<6m -> 1
d>=6m -> 0,02813*ln(d) + 0,85
d>200m -> 1
drag factor drafting for leading car:
d<6m -> 1
d>=6m -> 0,002813*ln(d) + 0,985
d>200m -> 1
With these assumptions you could then place two cars on the track, assume a gap (2, 5 or 10 tenths) and see how much track length is needed for the car behind to catch up in different configurations.
Edited by thegforcemaybewithyou, 03 October 2016 - 20:30.