The new FIA Formula 3 chassis, to be debuted this year, is expected to deliver a massive performance boost, whilst implementing the latest Formula 1 safety technology according to FIA single-seater president Stefano Domenicali.
The 2017 chassis will see various changes, including a lower nose to minimise the risk of a car becoming airborne when hitting a rear tyre of another car and will also feature more aggressive styling to bring it closer to F1 in terms of looks.
A number of other safety measures have been implemented including a new front impact structure, which results in an increase of the impact energy absorption by around 25 per cent. Like F1, secondary U-shaped intrusion panels (“Zylon” panels) have been added to the sides and bottom area on the front of the car to increase stability.
The survival cell of the monocoque has been fitted with additional padding to protect drivers’ legs. Furthermore, wheel tethers have been upgraded to sustain forces of up to 6kJ instead of 4kJ, to further minimise the risk of wheels getting detached from the chassis in case of a crash.
The new Dallara aerodynamic kit will also provide a performance boost which could deliver record laptimes.
The kit includes new front-wing endplates and outer front-wing flaps, whilst the rear-wing has also undergone changes. In addition, an extended diffuser size will result in increased downforce and reduced drag.
"This is a very important step in the evolution of the series, not only because of the improvement in performance and safety of the cars, but also because it gives stability to the rules which is fundamental to keep costs under control," commented Domenicali.
"These changes are undoubtedly in line with the concept of making the series more affordable. Despite the initial outlay to implement the upgrades, the returns will greatly outweigh the investment as these new-spec cars not only offer a more attractive package for teams and drivers, but also ensure that the chassis homologation period can be extended.
"Consequently, it prevents the teams from having to buy new cars as they can compete with the current chassis over the next three years while safety is not compromised and a performance gain is guaranteed."
Robert Maas, FIA Formula 3 technical delegate added: "The new upgrades to the F3 chassis mean increased safety for competitors and improved aerodynamic performance, handling and driveability of the cars.
"The full kit is available from the chassis manufacturer now and will be used by teams for testing next month. Then we will also find out exactly how much faster the new car will be."
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