Weight is one of the most prominent coefficients while calculating the speed of an F1 car. The lower the weight, the faster the car can go, but it’s always about finding the right balance. Currently, the Ferrari SF-23 has been the Italian company’s best car, but it exceeds the FIA technical regulations by 6 kgs. This weight has been dragging Ferrari down, and for the next season, it looks like they are about to unleash something new.

2023, was not a great year for Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz due to the drawbacks of the cars and for 2024, Ferrari has a few secrets up its sleeve. The Maranello-based outfit is ready to level the playing field and fans will get to see if it will be enough to catch up with Red Bull, the dominators of 2023.

Ferrari’s Project 676 is getting ready for action

The Ferrari F1 team, led by Enrico Cardile, has successfully achieved a significant weight reduction target for the upcoming F1 model, referred to as the Ferrari 676. The car is expected to reach the minimum weight limit of 798 kg, in contrast to the previous SF-23, which started the previous season 6 kg above the specified limit. When push came to shove, Ferarri called in Rory Byrne to work on the 676.

The new Ferrari challenger is mentioned as the first Cavallino car with a ground effect. Ground effect refers to a design principle that enhances aerodynamic performance by managing airflow beneath the car, improving downforce and overall stability. The weight reduction efforts have been distributed across various components of the car. Key areas of focus include the body, transmission, hub holders, and battery.

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This season Red Bull is also reported to be aiming to go below the weight limit. Weight reduction is a key element for Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz to compete more effectively with drivers from Red Bull, Mercedes, and McLaren. Wind tunnel and simulator data are acknowledged by technicians as clear indicators of the car’s capabilities and it looks like Ferarri will have a stronger chance this year.

What will be the differences between the Ferrari 676 and SF-23?

There is a sense of secrecy and speculation surrounding the actual performance of the new Ferrari, as the team refrains from making direct comparisons between the Ferrari 676 and its predecessor, the SF-23. But can try to take a look at what we know so far.

First, let’s talk about what was wrong with the SF-23 and why the 6 kgs mattered so much. The vehicle had increased tire wear, which affected the decision for pitstopping. Although they had the pole position, Ferarri couldn’t keep the lead against more optimized cars. Even Leo Turrini pointed out that the SF-23 had underlying structural defects hindering performance.

According to Turrini, Ferrari is confident they have addressed the structural defects in their 2024 car. Beyond that, significant work was done on suspension, weight distribution, and overall package management based on tire wear, according to the journalist.

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Project 676 is anticipated to be 95% new compared to SF-23 and it features downwash-style side pods inspired by AMR23 and a front wing influenced by Red Bull. With the new machine that Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz will be driving next season, do you think it will be what it takes them to win 2024?