Scarbs: Ferrari's diffuser has gained a new channel under the rear crash structure. Much like the Mercedes solution, this is a way to circumvent the rules that limit the diffuser to a 125mm height and the ban on openings in the diffuser. In the middle of the diffuser, a dipped channel is visible. The scoop formed by this dip is legal as its opening is formed by an extension of the starter motor hole. Above this scoop, the diffuser rises to about 200mm, far more than the 125mm maximum height. The scoop masks this height and forms the surface that meets the height regulations. To make this duct produce downforce, airflow needs to pass over it. This is probably the flow that passes tight against the sidepods, coke bottle shape and up over the middle of the diffuser. Although this duct creates a little more volume in the diffuser, it isn't another form of double diffuser. The potential of the extra duct is limited by the crash structure mounted above it. So this diffuser channel is not likely to become a must-have addition for all teams. Found a good pic: please log in to view this image
please log in to view this image In Malaysia Ferrari are again running with no hole in the nose and chassis, and with a very similar configuration to that seen in Melbourne. To cope with the heat of Sepang, the bodywork around the exhausts has been opened up (part of the original F138 project plan) to improve the extraction of hot air from the sidepods (single arrow), over and above the standard set-up (two small arrows).
Ferrari won't neglect one-lap F1 pace despite long-run importance Ferrari has promised it will not neglect its qualifying pace deficit despite long-run performance having become even more important with Formula 1's 2013 tyres. Although the Italian squad qualified second and third in Malaysia, it was a second away from polesitter Sebastian Vettel. Red Bull also dominated qualifying in Australia. and some shocking stats (well shocking may be the right word): QUALIFYING STATS Poles since 2010 Ferrari: 4 / Red Bull: 43 Average qualifying positions 2010 2011 2012 2013* Ferrari: 6.8 4.9 8.0 3.5 Red Bull: 2.3 2.4 5.5 2.3
New front wing endplate: please log in to view this image New turning vanes: please log in to view this image
please log in to view this image Rubber buildup caused by coanda exhaust, shows its aiming at the right place Where will front wing tiers end? Alonso up to 7 tiers now: please log in to view this image
Massa's little accident gave us a unique cut out view of his front wing please log in to view this image
