Why Aren’t the Cockpits of Formula 1 Cars Made Closed?

Formula 1 is one of the sports that strictly adheres to its traditions. Even a small change can make a big impact. Although turning open cockpits into closed ones is a big change contribution to security isn’t it worth it?

Just because of this vulnerability, many pilots have serious accidents, as well as those who lost their lives It even happened. A closed cockpit was brought up after every accident, but it was not implemented. But why?

Although cockpit security was constantly increased, it was never possible to switch to a closed cockpit.

Racing drivers such as Dan Wheldon, Henry Surtees, Jules Bianchi, Maria De Villota and Felipe Massa; In the history of Formula 1 very dangerous accidents they passed. Bianchi’s accident, the visual of which is given above You can watch it on YouTube by clicking the link.

Fernando Alonso in his press statement after Bianchi’s fatal accident “At least closed cockpit We must review, try or test the idea. We have technology, we have planes, why shouldn’t we think? In recent motor sports The biggest accidents are all head injuries.” he said.

Cockpit safety has been continuously increased over the years.

For example, previously the driver’s shoulders and upper body were visible from the side of the vehicle, even They didn’t even have seat belts. As you can see in the image above, it was almost like bumper cars in an amusement park.

Security measures were increased as accidents occurred. Helmet visors have been made smaller by moving them lower. Additionally, by adding a carbon fiber strip on the visor they tried to protect the driver’s eyes and forehead.

Now we can only see part of his head, but this still has not prevented accidents with bad consequences. After every accident closed cockpits Even though it is on the agenda again, open cockpits are still preferred.

There are multiple reasons why open cockpits continue to be used.

Nowadays, open cockpits are mostly It continues to exist due to tradition. Seeing the driver’s car from the camera above his head feels like a unique experience.

It also provides the advantage of recognizing the pilot’s identity. Your favorite racer’s helmet, It becomes distinctive and you can distinguish two team cars from each other. “Can’t other ways be developed to separate drivers from each other?” One cannot help but think.

While the excitement is kept alive, security is intended to be increased.

Moreover, another element that adds excitement to Formula 1 races is being dangerous. The race, which offers great excitement to the audience and pilots, may take the adrenaline rush to a higher level with open cockpits. Still, is it worth the risk to life? It is debatable.

Another reason is that the driver can get out of a burning car faster. Preference for open cockpits. Allegedly, an open-cockpit vehicle with seat belts on would be safest.

Maybe sliding backwards, an old-style aircraft canopy (transparent structure surrounding the cockpit) may be an option. Of course, this idea should be thoroughly considered by engineers, otherwise it may cause other security problems.

So, is it so difficult to make closed cockpits?

No, actually it’s easy from a technical perspective. However, the appearance of Formula 1 cars will change and this both aesthetics, engineering and security It will lead to further discussions.

Also closed cockpits, It also affects aerodynamics. Adding a windshield to the vehicle automatically moves it to the middle of the vehicle. extra weight adding it changes the balance and aerodynamics must be redesigned to regulate the airflow over it.

Formula 1 considered other options instead.

Three main options were considered: closed cockpit, “halo” and “aeroscreen”. “Halo” consists of a spring-shaped titanium piece that surrounds the pilot’s head area and is connected to the chassis of the vehicle at three points. According to simulations, this system prevents the driver from being injured in fatal accidents. chances of survival It increases by 17%.

Another alternative system is “aeroscreen”, we can also call it a kind of glass shield. This system International Automobile Federation He created another very similar system called “shield” because it was not deemed suitable by the company, but some drivers complained that their vision was impaired when a windshield was added to their vehicles with this design. We don’t even get into rainy weather…

As a result, will there be closed cockpits in Formula 1?

It looks like the closed cockpit will replace F1 tradition alternative methods is being developed. Although there is no sign of a closed cockpit in recent history, we will see what will happen in the future.

Our other Formula 1 content that may interest you: