Next generation F2 car revealed
The FIA Formula 2 Championship has introduced its eagerly awaited F2 2024 car to the global media within the Formula 1 paddock at Monza. Set to be utilized in the 2024, 2025, and 2026 seasons, the new car embodies a design philosophy aimed at providing aspiring Formula 1 drivers with a preparation platform that closely mirrors an F1 car in terms of safety, aesthetics, systems, performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. The vehicle's design, featuring distinct elements such as the nose, front and rear wings, and floor, emphasizes facilitating wheel-to-wheel racing to ensure exhilarating on-track battles.
Pivotal to the F2 2024's attributes is adherence to the latest safety advancements sanctioned by the FIA. A 3.4-liter turbocharged Mecachrome engine propels the car, and accommodations have been made to incorporate the Aramco synthetic sustainable fuel, scheduled for introduction in 2025. For the immediate 2024 season, the F2 car remains fueled by Aramco's 55% bio-sourced sustainable fuel, which was seamlessly integrated in 2023.
Ergonomics, braking, and steering effort align with the FIA's 2024 specifications to ensure accessibility for a diverse spectrum of drivers and enhance the championship's inclusivity. Familiar system components, including Virtual Safety Car (VSC) and optimized Drag Reduction System (DRS), are retained, while the vehicle's electronics are upgraded with the Marelli Vehicle Control Unit (VCU).
During a successful shakedown in July at Varano, former F2 driver Tatiana Calderon piloted the F2 2024 car. Subsequent to the car's unveiling, an extensive development program is slated to transpire through various tests in the remainder of the year, featuring participation from drivers such as the 2022 FIA Formula 2 Champion, Felipe Drugovich.
This developmental journey will encompass significant mileage to ascertain reliability before delivering the cars to the teams. Continuous refinement initiatives will unfold throughout 2024, 2025, and 2026, coinciding with the gradual increase of sustainable components within the fuel mixture, ultimately targeting a 100% reliance on synthetic sustainable fuels by 2027.
Teams will receive the first F2 2024 car by the conclusion of December 2023, followed by the delivery of the second vehicle in mid-January 2024. Prior to the initial official pre-season test, a shakedown involving the teams will be conducted, allowing each team to evaluate their designated car's performance and characteristics.
