this post was submitted on 19 Aug 2023
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Formula 1
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As far as I know the only reason F1 regulations require open-wheel designs is because of tradition, not because it has any performance benefit. When F1 cars were much simpler (50s and 60s) the fastest design paradigm was skinny open wheels, but as aero has become a bigger consideration open wheels have become a hindrance (from a performance standpoint).
I suppose the root question is how much of F1 regulations should be based in tradition and how much should be based in performance. Would an all electric RB2010 type car out-perform a traditional F1 car? Probably. Would it still be an "F1 car (TM)" though? Well, that's subjective.
Ahhhh traditions. The anchor of progress. I would really like if someone gave me a proper reason as to why open wheels are desirable apart from, and even that would be a stretch, looks. Not that it would be proper anyway.
Weight is one big reason for sticking with open wheel design. The cars are already too big and heavy. Any regulation change that will increase the weight is probably not going to be considered at this point.
And you can allow for nose to tail racing with open wheels. Formula E is open wheel and has almost no issue with dirty air.
Overall I would say full wet races are so rare that changing away from open wheel just for that wouldn't be good for the sport.
Formula E generates waaaaay less downforce compared to F1 to reduce drag thus save battery. And they generally race at lower speed street circuits.
This big open wheel dirty air problem don’t really bother them even without specific designs or regulations.