Formula One – What’s new in 2008
The Formula One season is all set to begin this weekend with the Australian Grand Prix scheduled to vroom at Melbourne. Other than the much touted removal of traction control systems, there are some other changes and rules as well.
All cars are now required to use a standard electronic control unit (ECU). This controls the engine, gearbox and clutch and is designed by McLaren Electronic Systems and Microsoft as per guidelines set by the FIA.
Drivers are allowed one engine change to their car without the usual 10-place penalty on the starting grid. This must be a result of genuine engine failure. Engines still have to last for two successive races, though.
Each team is allowed not more than two cars available for use at any one time at a Grand Prix, effectively ruling out spare cars lying in the garages.
Gearboxes must now last for four successive races. Any unscheduled replacement will incur a five-place penalty on the starting grid at that Grand Prix.
As far as the qualifying sessions are concerned, refuelling is not allowed between the end of qualifying and the start of the Grand Prix. The first stage of qualifying will last 20 minutes, the second 15 and the final shootout with the top 10 cars will last for 10 minutes.
Additional Resources:
Managing Change: What’s new for 2008
Managing Change: What’s new for 2008 – Part Two
The 2008 Season Preview – what’s new?
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