F1, Ferrari SF-25: have Maranello engineers rejected pull-rod suspension? Reasons for risky decision

Ferrari has been the subject of much discussion, particularly regarding a feature that the Maranello team has yet to integrate into Formula 1. Each season is anticipated to be the turning point, yet the reality remains unchanged. The focus is on the front suspension system, which many argue should undergo a major overhaul by adopting a pull-rod kinematic design. The next Ferrari car, potentially named the SF-25, is expected to be 95% different from its predecessor. These statements come from Frederic Vasseur, the French team principal who has driven a profound transformation since taking the reins of the Scuderia.

A key area of focus is the car’s floor, regarded as the critical component for achieving a substantial performance boost. During the 2024 Formula 1 season, specifically at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Ferrari debuted an experimental floor. This initiative aimed to stay ahead of the curve and advance the understanding of airflow dynamics as it interacts with the floor and flows toward the rear of the car. Given the pivotal role of this element in generating downforce, Ferrari developed a specific configuration inspired by the experimental design to maximize efficiency.

This work serves as the foundation for Project 677, which includes significant updates to other areas, such as the chassis, sidepods, undercuts, and side panels. Enthusiasm is high for the car that will mark the Ferrari debut of Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time F1 world champion who joins the team with a singular objective: to restore Ferrari’s dominance in the sport. This goal is shared by Charles Leclerc, who will team up with a fast, experienced, and highly motivated teammate. For Ferrari, 2025 is not seen as a transitional year but as a genuine opportunity to make the decisive leap and achieve success.

Turning back to the suspension, could Ferrari have considered adopting a pull-rod setup at the front? This configuration is already utilized by their primary competitors, Red Bull and McLaren. Red Bull has employed it since the introduction of the current regulations, while McLaren adopted it in the 2023 season. This approach was a hot topic last year as several teams began incorporating Red Bull’s suspension concepts. It is important to clarify, however, that the benefits of this scheme are not guaranteed.

From a mechanical standpoint, the pull-rod offers only marginal performance gains. That said, it can pave the way for new development opportunities. Yet, given this is the final season under the current regulatory framework, making such a change now could be a significant gamble. It is worth noting that even McLaren took nearly an entire season to optimize this setup and fully exploit its advantages.

The increasing adoption of pull-rod suspensions at the front is primarily driven by aerodynamic considerations. However, the advantages are not immediately evident. The pull-rod’s configuration, with its attachment to the lower chassis and upper wheel hub, facilitates better airflow management around the tires. This setup helps generate the necessary out-wash, pushing turbulent air outward to improve overall aerodynamic efficiency. Furthermore, this design integrates seamlessly with the geometric requirements for optimizing the car’s nose structure.

OUTLINE:

00:00:00 Ferrari's Formula 1 Future
00:00:34 The Importance of the Floor
00:01:08 Project 677 and Lewis Hamilton's Debut
00:01:47 Pull-Rod vs. Push-Rod
00:02:17 Aerodynamic Benefits of Pull-Rod
00:03:09 Challenges of the Pull-Rod Scheme
00:03:44 Anticipation for the 2025 Season
00:04:05 New Layout and Weight Distribution
00:04:45 Lewis Hamilton Ferrari debut

🚨 Subscribe for more videos about Ferrari ✍🏼

OUR LINKS

From race updates to behind-the-scenes stories, we've got it all covered. Whether you're a die-hard Scuderia Ferrari fan or simply passionate about Formula 1, our website is your go-to source for all things Ferrari.

#ScuderiaFans #ForzaFerrari #ScuderiaFerrari #essereFerrari #Ferrari #Scuderia #PrancingHorse #F1 #Formula1 #motorsport #FormulaOne #race #racing #Charles16 #CL16 #CharlesLeclerc #TeamLeclerc #Leclerc #Lewis44 #LH44 #LewisHamilton #TeamHamilton #Hamilton #TeamLH #Vasseur #FredVasseur #SF24

[rolandotillit]

You don't talk about how flexible front wings which limit downforce also allow you to run softer suspension, which in turn allows one to run pull rod, as one no longer needs extreme suspension stiffness for the front axle.

[jakobmercanti]

Just to be clear McLaren adopted the pullrod in 2022 at the same time as Red Bull. Both teams came up with it on the first year of the new rules.

[GerhardVelten-gx]

AND AUTOGRAMM FOR CHARLES LECLERC AND LEWIS HAMILITON AND FERRARI ONE TEAM GRAZIE GERHARD VELTEN