Innovative Changes in Ferrari’s 2024 Formula 1 Car
Ferrari has taken a bold approach with the redesign of its 2024 Formula 1 car, the SF-24. Unlike its competitors, Ferrari has chosen to stick with a unique rear suspension configuration, setting it apart from the rest of the field.
While other teams have embraced the pushrod rear suspension trend for its aerodynamic benefits, Ferrari has opted to retain its pullrod rear configuration. This decision has made Ferrari the only team to consciously choose this setup, with even its customer Haas following suit due to the shared components.
The pushrod rear suspension design has gained popularity among teams like Red Bull, McLaren, Alpine, and Mercedes. For instance, Mercedes recently transitioned to this setup based on the new Aston Martin’s rear end, which mirrors the Mercedes design. Sauber also stands out for its commitment to the pushrod layout, a decision that aligns with Ferrari’s supply of gearbox internals to the team.
Ferrari’s chassis technical director, Enrico Cardile, explains that the team explored the possibility of adopting a pushrod layout but found that the advantages did not outweigh the potential compromises in weight and compliance. As a result, Ferrari remains content with its current suspension configuration, emphasizing a balanced approach to weight, compliance, and aerodynamic performance.
The debate over suspension configurations extends beyond the basic setup, as evidenced by Sauber’s focus on developing its own pushrod design in collaboration with Ferrari. While the decision between pullrod and pushrod at the front may be subjective, the aerodynamic benefits of the pushrod configuration at the rear are clear, according to Sauber’s technical director, James Key.
Ferrari’s steadfast commitment to its current rear suspension configuration sets it apart from the competition. While other teams have embraced the pushrod trend for aerodynamic advantages, Ferrari has found a winning balance between weight, compliance, and performance with its existing layout. As the 2024 season unfolds, Ferrari’s strategic decision could prove to be a game-changer in the competitive world of Formula 1.