Formula 1: 7 big changes made for the 2022 season

Formula 1 new technical regulations: No. 1 – Overall car size

A very seldom-mentioned change in the 2022 rules, despite the fact that it is such an important factor to racing on modern-day high-speed street circuits, is that the 2022 Formula 1 machinery will physically occupy less space on-track to increase overtaking opportunities.

If you have not watched the 2021 Monaco E-Prix, it is a must-watch and tangible evidence that reducing the overall dimensions of Formula 1 cars will immediately provide improved racing.

Previously unable to fit burgeoning vehicles into rapidly closing gaps around what are practically alleyways by Formula 1 standards, the regulations could provide not only a higher quantity of overtakes but also new corners to attempt a bold move, corners where drivers could never contemplate the idea of going side-by-side.

Despite a minimum weight increase of 5% for the new tires and added safety elements, there will still be more tarmac available when inevitably being run wide by a rival on the inside.

Formula 1 new technical regulations: No. 2 – Elimination of bargeboards

Also called “turning-vanes,” Formula 1 bargeboards entered the sport with McLaren in the 1990s and have remained in the sport ever since, eventually evolving into the “atrocities” witnessed on the side of each 2021 manufacturer.

With this ongoing complexity, bargeboards have become a significant aerodynamic development cost and are partially being eliminated to encourage closer competition between financially differing manufacturers.

The primary reason for the removal of bargeboards, though, is their contribution to dirty air. Used to create vortices on the side of the car, this airflow would not only feed the diffuser but also seal off the floor of the car to create a pseudo-ground effect with the flat floor and rake.