Aerodynamics in Formula 1: A Literature Review on Design Strategies, Performance, and Regulatory Evolutions
Abstract
Aerodynamics has for some time been at the base of what we do in Formula 1, which includes everything from how well a car turns a corner to fuel efficiency. In this work we look at in detail the aerodynamic forces and the design strategies which play with them which also looks at the growth of the regulatory structures which put a tie on their use. We begin with the basics of lift, drag, and downforce which are the forces we are playing with and which we engineer into components like the wings, diffusers and bargeboards to get that extra bit of performance. Also we look at drag reduction we go over the past use of the Drag Reduction System (DRS) and the part played by Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in the simulation and fine tuning of air flow. A key section of the paper discusses the influence of aerodynamics on fuel use, picking out the increasing relevance of energy efficiency in motorsport. The regulatory timeline is followed from early developments to the 2022 ground effect renaissance, culminating in the 2026 switch to active aerodynamics. This change overcomes DRS with a dual-mode setup that enables drivers to dynamically change wing configurations, providing more strategic freedom and minimizing the need for artificial overtaking enhancers. Through the combination of technical analysis and regulatory perspective, this paper highlights the revolutionary potential of active aero systems in defining the next generation of Formula 1 where innovation, racecraft, and sustainability find common ground. et
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