Formula 1 Series - Gokul

Formula 1 Power Unit


When someone say the word racing , the first word  that comes to your mind is Formula 1 . Even though the entire vehicle engineering is important , without power unit , there is no purpose of the entire vehicle. It is like brain of the Car. What makes these power unit best in world? let us have a look into it.

Formula 1 power unit is not the fastest power unit. there are cars that can go at better speeds. Infact modern Formula1 cars reach a speed  not more than 350Kmph, what then makes this a best power unit in the world? this is because they are smartly engineered. Buggati Veyron which has a massive engine , weighs 490 kgs, and weighs almost 900 kgs with entire transmission setup, when this is compared to entire formula 1 car it weighs more than 150 kgs. Buggati veyron uses a 8 L W16 Engine produces a peak horse power of 1184. while Formula 1 use a 1.6 L turbo charged engine that can produce a peak engine horse power of 600 Hp which is further aided by electric motor that adds like 80 Hp( depends on team and design) and when boosted with ERS(Energy Recovery System) can give like 150 Hp to wheels and the entire formula 1 power unit weighs about 145 kgs(maximum). Veyron has a kerb weight of 1990kg , that means it has a power is to weight ratio of 594.97( Hp/Ton). When this is compared to Formula 1 Car , it can  bluntly have a power is to weight ratio of 906.67(Hp/Ton) and when powered with ERS it can produce  up to 1000 Horse power per Ton , making it a car with highest power is to weight ratio.


Why this lower weight cannot be achieved in Veyron ? This is because formula 1 power unit is engineered for requirement, The maximum distance a engine of a formula 1 can last is like 400km ( that is par, and maximum what is achieved), while the veyron can cover 1000km at a stretch , making it more reliable vehicle. Also a formula 1 engine can hardly last a season. That is why FIA conducting Formula 1 allow 3 engines to use throughout the whole season.

What makes the Power Unit?
  • Internal Combustion Engine
  • Motor Generation Unit  - Heat
  • Motor Generation Unit - Kinetic


Let us look into all this in further post.

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