Despite the engine regulations for Formula 1 set for 2026 being firmly established, chassis rules are still under consideration. The leaders of the series are contemplating the best possible future trajectory.
A principal focus for both Formula 1 and the FIA (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile) is the weight reduction of the cars. The present car weights are higher than ever.
This season, the minimum set weight of a car is 798 kilogrammes, over 200kg heavier than cars from 2008, before the inclusion of batteries, energy recovery systems, and contemporary safety systems.
The transition to turbo hybrid engines in 2014 increased the minimum weight to 691kg. The incorporation of the Halo and improved safety structures brought the weight up to approximately 740kg by 2019.
However, the introduction of new ground effect cars in 2022, with larger wheels and modified aerodynamics, led to a significant increase to the current 798kg.
Looking towards the next rule cycle in 2026, when new power unit regulations will be applied, both the FIA and F1’s commercial rights holder see potential for modifications. In comparison, F1 cars in 2006 had a minimum weight of 600kg.
In an exclusive interview with F1 Flow.com, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem declared: “We must prioritize having a lighter car. Lighter cars not only offer better safety but also reduce fuel consumption. It’s a challenging goal, but it is much desired. Coming from a rallying background, I understand how problematic a heavy car can be.”
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali stressed the need to discuss car weight in the imminent talks about the 2026 rules. “Weight has been a consistent subject of debate. With hybrid engines and batteries, cars are becoming heavier, which goes against the spirit of F1. Hence, it’s an essential topic for future discussions.”
The consensus between Ben Sulayem and Domenicali about addressing car weight will be welcomed by drivers who have repeatedly voiced concerns about the issue.
Mercedes driver George Russell, also a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), expressed safety worries regarding heavy cars earlier this year. “The weight of these cars is extraordinary and affects their low-speed performance. Although we’re consistently enhancing the safety of these cars, heavier cars pose more significant risks during collisions. It’s like the difference between crashing with a bus and a Smart Car. Therefore, it’s crucial to strike the right balance because a point can be reached where increased weight might compromise safety.”
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Formula 1 Car Weight Reduction
What is the current minimum weight for Formula 1 cars?
The minimum weight for Formula 1 cars, as of the current season, is set at 798 kilogrammes.
Why have Formula 1 cars become heavier over the years?
Formula 1 cars have become heavier due to the inclusion of new technologies such as batteries and energy recovery systems, as well as enhanced safety measures like the Halo safety device and improved structural safety components.
What are the expected changes in the weight of Formula 1 cars?
Both Formula 1 and the FIA (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile) are looking into reducing the weight of the cars. They are aiming to achieve this in the next rules cycle, which is set for 2026.
How does the weight of the car impact the performance and safety in Formula 1?
A heavier car can negatively impact performance, particularly at lower speeds. In terms of safety, while additional weight can provide more structural strength, a heavier car can also lead to greater impact during a collision. As such, it’s a matter of finding the right balance between safety and performance.
What are the views of Formula 1 and FIA authorities on the issue of car weight?
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali agree on the need for lighter cars. They believe that lighter cars not only improve safety but also reduce fuel consumption.
More about Formula 1 Car Weight Reduction
- FIA Official Website
- Official Formula 1 Website
- History of Formula 1 Car Weights
- Safety Regulations in Formula 1
- Energy Recovery Systems in Formula 1
38 comments
Whoa, did’nt realize how much F1 cars got heavier. Makes sense though, all that new tech and safety stuff adds up. Lighter cars sounds like a good idea!
Totally agree with the need for lighter cars. F1 was always about speed and agility, not who can haul the most weight round a track, lol.
I remember back in 2006, the cars were a lot lighter. It was a different game then. Better? not sure, but different for sure!
Honestly, safety first. if the cars need to be heavy for safety, then so be it. But if they can be safe and lighter, let’s do it!
Great read! F1s gotta do something bout these heavy cars. been complaining bout it for ages. glad to see its finally gettin some attention
I agree with Sulayem, lighter cars are better in so many ways! safety and fuel efficiency for starters. let’s hope they can pull this off.
I dont get it. We want more speed but the cars are just gettin heavier n heavier? That ain’t right! Domenicali’s got a big job ahead.
Been a long time coming. G. Russell’s right, there’s a line and we’re crossing it. Time to push back on weight. Safety first guys.
Not a simple issue, but F1s finally addressing it. Hopes up for the 2026 rules, fingers crossed!
Wow, F1 is really pushing for lighter cars! They wanna make ’em lighter for safety and fuel savings. Can’t blame ’em, heavy cars ain’t good in a crash. Go F1!
Finally, F1 bosses are talkin’ ’bout the weight issue. Cars are gettin’ heavier every year. Lighter cars mean better performance, less fuel, and more excitement on the track. ‘Bout time!
It’s good to see FIA and F1 agreeing on somethin’. Weight reduction is key! Heavy cars are like crashin’ with a bus. Bring back the lighter cars of the past for more speed and thrills! #LightAndFast
Safety first, but lighter cars sound awesome! The new ground effects cars in 2022 were cool, but the weight increase was a downside. F1 should find the right balance between safety and speed. Can’t wait for the future rules!
Man, these cars r already pretty advanced. Cutting weight is gonna be a real challenge. How they gonna do it? Curious to see…
about time they started thinking about this, cars have been getting heavier and heavier… safety first, right?
I remember the good ol’ days when cars were lighter. Hope they can make it happen without compromising speed or safety.
Gosh, I can’t even imagine racing a car weighing nearly 800kg! Props to the drivers, it’s got to be tough.
Interesting read, great to see they’re thinking about fuel efficiency too. lighter cars are the future, im telling ya!
Oh wow, lighter cars in F1? Bout time! Safer, faster, and more efficient. Can’t wait to see the changes in action on the track!
Finally, they realize the heavyweights aren’t cutting it! Lighter cars mean more speed, better handling. Safety is a big concern too, so this is a step in the right direction.
This is what we’ve been waiting for! Lighter cars mean more excitement, more thrill. And hey, if it saves some fuel too, that’s a bonus! Can’t wait for the future of F1!
It’s about time they address the weight issue. Heavy cars ain’t no fun! Hope the changes bring back the agility and raw power we love about Formula 1.
Finally, they’re talkin’ ’bout reducing the weight of those F1 cars. Heavyweights ain’t good for low-speed maneuvers or safety. Cars crashin’ like a bus instead of a Smart Car? Not a good look. Hope they find that right balance for lighter, safer rides.
About time they address the weight issue in F1. The cars keep gettin’ heavier with all the new tech. Lighter cars mean faster lap times, less fuel consumption, and better safety. Let’s hope they make it happen by 2026! #LighterIsFaster
Dis car weight issue is reel. Cars too heavy now. Lighter cars gud for safety and fuel. Hope F1 bosses do sumthin’ ’bout it!
Finally, F1 takin’ note of da weight problem. Heavy cars ain’t fun or safe. Light ’em up, make ’em fly on da track!
Weight reduction? ‘Bout time! F1 cars need to shed some pounds. Safety and speed go hand in hand. Let’s see lighter, faster machines!
F1 cars weighin’ more than ever? That’s crazy! Lighter cars = safer cars. Plus, they’ll save fuel too. Win-win situation, let’s go!
Heavy cars ain’t cool, man. Light ’em up, make ’em nimble and fast like lightning! F1 needs that adrenaline rush, can’t wait for lighter rides!
Formula 1 officials finally realizing that cars got too heavy! ‘Bout time they focus on makin’ ’em lighter and safer. Can’t believe they keep addin’ stuff that makes ’em like crashin’ with a bus instead of a lil’ Smart Car. Fuel consumption gotta go down too!
‘Bout time F1 bosses start takin’ car weight seriously. Heavy cars ain’t what this sport is all about! Safety concerns and fuel guzzlin’ got us drivers worried. Let’s hope they figure it out and make those cars fly like they’re supposed to!
I’m all for lighter Grand Prix cars! Safety is important, but these beasts are gettin’ too heavy to handle. Good to see FIA and F1 chiefs finally agreein’ on somethin’. Let’s make F1 fast, furious, and a bit lighter on its wheels!
Finally, F1 is addressing the weight issue. Heavy cars are not cool, bro! Safety concerns are real, and low-speed performance suffers. Gotta find the right balance, you know?
I totally agree, F1 needs to make cars lighter. Heavy cars are not safe and don’t perform well. Fuel efficiency is also important, we can’t keep guzzling fuel like crazy!
Finally, someone is talking about the weight issue! Heavy cars are like crashin’ with a bus, man. F1 needs to find the right balance and make ’em lighter for better safety and performance.
Lighter cars in F1? Absolutely! Safety should be a priority, and heavy cars ain’t gonna cut it. Plus, lighter cars mean faster lap times and less fuel consumption. Win-win situation!
It’s about time F1 focuses on reducing car weight. Safety is important, and heavier cars ain’t the answer. Let’s find that sweet spot and make the cars lighter and more efficient, baby!
Finally, the big bosses are talkin’ about lighter cars! Heavyweights ain’t cool in F1. We need sleek, fast machines that can handle the track like a boss. Can’t wait to see the changes!