The Ferrari SF21, the team’s challenger for the 2021 Formula 1 season, is an evolution of its predecessor, the SF1000. While the new car shares many similarities with its predecessor, Ferrari has made significant changes in an attempt to improve its performance and reclaim its status as a top team in Formula 1.
One of the most noticeable changes to the SF21 is its rear end, which has been completely redesigned. Ferrari has spent its development tokens on a new gearbox, which has allowed the team to make the rear of the car narrower and more aerodynamic. The suspension has also been revised, with the rear wishbones now mounted closer to the crash structure. These changes have resulted in a more tapered rear end, which should improve the car’s downforce and stability.
Another area where Ferrari has focused its development efforts is the power unit. The SF21 features a revised turbocharger and intercooler, as well as an improved ERS system. Ferrari claims that these changes have resulted in a significant increase in horsepower, which should help the team to close the gap to Mercedes and Red Bull.
In addition to the mechanical changes, Ferrari has also revised the livery of the SF21. The car now features a burgundy stripe running down the center of the engine cover, a nod to the team’s heritage. The burgundy stripe is also incorporated into the team’s new logo, which has been redesigned to be more modern and aggressive.
Overall, the Ferrari SF21 is a significant improvement over its predecessor. The car features a number of innovative design changes, which should help the team to improve its performance and challenge for race wins. Whether or not the SF21 is enough to dethrone Mercedes and Red Bull remains to be seen, but it is clear that Ferrari is determined to return to the top of Formula 1.
Here are some specific details about the changes that Ferrari has made to the SF21:
The front nose has been modified to improve airflow between the front wheels. The front wing has a more extreme loading of the inboard end, and the inside edge of the outboard elements rise more steeply. The barge board concept is similar to 2020 but with modifications, including the addition of some horizontal louvers. The radiator inlet opening has changed shape and looks a little smaller. The upper side pod surface sweeps down more dramatically than most other cars. The rear suspension has been swept rearwards, and the back leg of the lower wishbone is not integrated into the crash structure. The rear differential has also been raised to increase the volume of the side channels. The power unit has been repackaged, and the turbocharger and intercooler have been revised. The ERS system has also been improved to increase efficiency and integration.