The Autoextremist is lambasting the FIA again, and with good reason. The worldwide motorsports governing body, based in the Republic, seems intent on killing Formula 1.
What does this have to do with IndyCar racing? Everything.
When Mike Hull and others talk about "technology" in IndyCar, they typically mean "aerodynamics". Unfortunately, this particular permutation of automotive technology is becoming increasingly irrelevant. And don't get us started on "innovation". Needless to say, if mass-produced computer software is available for it, then it is by definition not an innovation.
It is not IndyCar's job to preserve the employment of aerodynamicists. Rather, IndyCar exists to attract an audience. Conservation is on the minds of many, and the IRL should do whatever it can to capitalize. You want innovation and technology in IndyCar racing? Let's start by reducing the size of the fuel tanks to 10 gallons. That would lend significant competitive advantage to any manufacturer that increases fuel economy at a rate that is greater than that of the resulting decline in speed.
That's innovation. That's technology. That's not good news for the aerodynamicists who have dominated the developmental portion of racing for three decades.
We admit that this idea requires considerable development. More important, this is the type of idea that ought to be discussed frequently on West 16th Street.
Roggespierre
Monday, August 10, 2009
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Aero guys would be even more precious if Autoextremist got his way.
ReplyDeleteThe major load would still be an aerodynamic load. You can't fight physics.