F1 Fanatic

We’ve had innovations recently, like KERS, and the F-Duct. But how bout some from long ago. Like Wings, we don’t really think of them as an innovation now because they’re a must have on the car, but they were first introduced in 1968, almost 20 years after the sports first race, by Lotus. So what were some innovations you remember that changed F1?

I remember paddle shifts seeming like a revolutionary idea and Murray would often use onboard shots to describe them as fantastic new technology that allows a driver to keep both hands on the wheel. I hate them though – go back to a proper clutch and gearbox I say!

The mass damper was a great innovation too but the banning of it was ridiculous.

Those are merely two that stand out from when I’ve been watching F1. If I had to pick one single innovation the changed the sport forever it would have to be mid engines. Ground effect was a simple but brilliant innovation too.

The Mclaren 2 rear brake pedal was innovative… but banned after Ferrari complained :)

http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2007/05/24/banned-mclarens-rear-brake-pedal/

fixy, what was the point in digging this topic up?

@sw6569 – This year the DRS offers a new innovation to F1.

I’d like to think the McLaren U-shaped sidepods. Whether or not they’re a positive move is another thing.

HRT were pretty innovative last year. No testing and they still didn’t come last! ;)

@Todfod – :O