On Formula1.com you can find the probable design of next season’s Ferrari. It’ll be probably named F2012, bringing back the F20xx naming system that is mainly associated with the early 00s dominance.
From these pictures, it seems a radical departure from last years’ designs, which sported only conventional solutions.
The sidepods are very tight, while the floor takes advantage of the maximum width (1400 mm). Moreover, not only the rear but also the front suspensions will be pull-rod.
And what about those crash structures separated from the sidepods? According to some rumours, the new car passed the lateral crash test with difficulties, so they had to fit this solution, transforming these structures in aerodynamical elements.
What do you think? Is this car and this radical approach the right answer to Ferrari’s winless streak of seasons? In my opinion, they are taking quite a few gambles here.
For example, last year’s Lotus had that wonderfully radical exhaust system that in the end turned out to be completely rubbish.
However, the comeback of Rory Byrne as “strategic consultant” for the design should be a guarantee that the new car will be – at least – more competitive than the awfully named “150° Italia”.