Noticeably different. Probably. But only at sporadic intervals and they won’t exactly produce the screaming noise enjoyed during previous generations.
The new regulations stipulate that 2016 cars must have at least two exhaust pipes. The main tailpipe for the turbo’s turbine and a smaller exit for the wastegate gasses, but can feature an optional third exit in the form of a second wastegate exhaust.
The problem with this ‘solution’ is that it’s yet to be tested in real-world conditions and is therefore a theoretical – and quick – fix dreamt up by Formula 1’s engine manufacturers.
It’s hoped that a direct exit for the wastegate will boost the volume as at present the noise is lost in the main turbo exhaust.
However the problem is that F1’s new turbo-hybrid engines use these gasses to spin the turbine and charge the battery through the ERS-H. Therefore the wastegate is only used when the pressure exceeds what is required to operate these components.
The wastegate tailpipe – the part they hope will make some extra noise to please the fans in the grandstand – will only operate at certain times, not constantly and at unregular times throughout a lap.
So yes, F1 will sound different – and hopefully louder – in 2016, but it certainly won’t bring back the roar of the V8 engines we previously experienced and enjoyed.
But noise probably isn’t the main reason the teams have pushed for a second (and third) tailpipe. The aerodynamic benefit, although small and sporadic, will be welcome at the rear following the loss of double and exhaust-blown diffusers.
The regulations are quite strict on tailpipe placement, but we wouldn’t be surprised if one or more teams manage to find a way to use the additional gasses to find extra downforce, as they have done so with the current single tailpipe and monkey seats.
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