The F1 2012 Car Launch Thread

[DazzlaF1]

It seems a bit early but I thought that It would be a good idea to get this started seeing that Caterham will be the first to launch their new car this Thursday (In the F1 Racing magazine of all places)

Heres a list of the launches (of which I know the dates of)

JANUARY 26th: Caterham
FEBRUARY 1st: McLaren
FEBRUARY 3rd: Ferrari, Force India*
FEBRUARY 5th: Lotus*
FEBRUARY 6th: Red Bull*, Sauber
FEBRUARY 7th: Toro Rosso
FEBRUARY 21st: Marussia

TBA: Mercedes, Williams, HRT

*To be launched on teams website

[airshifter]

I love seeing all the new cars, who stayed the same and who went more radical on designs. Add to that all the comparisons, speculation and rumors, and it makes things interesting. Personally I don't think any of the previous amounts to much at all.... it's like practice times.

[AndyL]

Yes I'm looking forward to seeing the new cars too. Last year I bet on Vettel to win the WDC and Webber to be in the top 3 based purely on the RB7 launch pictures. I'm not sure "looking fast" is necessarily a reliable indicator of "being fast" but it worked out well for me on that occasion!

Some hints about the Ferrari:
Some indiscretions from Italy about the new Ferrari F1 carJames Allen on F1 (http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2012/01/some-indiscretions-from-italy-about-the-new-ferrari-f1-car/)
Apparently they've switched to pull-rod rear suspension, and di Montezemolo thinks the car is ugly.

[wedge]

Strange side pods

What do you mean?

The radiators aren't exposed, that's just an inset!

The winglet infront - massive!


but not quite as innovative on first glance as I was expecting after Stefano's claims,

Well they've gone for undercut sidepods, narrower coke bottle and along with pullrod suspension to expose the floor and feed more air around the diffuser. Could be a be a trend to make up from the trick exhausts.

The exhausts are also angled towards underneath the rear wing. Likely another trend as Williams test this in Abu Dhabi IIRC.

It's hard to tell when you're the first to be let out of the bag so probably we'll have to wait what Newey comes up with as he has been the trend setter in recent years!

[yodasarmpit]

The 2012 Caterham

http://www.brettdunsmore.co.uk/pics/Caterham.jpg

My eyes....

[wedge]

I think now we know what Luca di Montezemolo why his Ferrari is ugly!

The front nose looks hideous but what can you do if its there to serve an aero purpose when the 2012 regs calls for a lower nose?


The most obvious rule change for 2012 is the lowering of the front of the nose cone. In recent years teams have tried to raise the entire front of the car in order to drive more airflow over the vanes and bargeboards below the nose.

So now the area ahead of the front bulkhead must be lower than 55cm. However the monocoque behind this area can remain as high as 62.5cm. Thus in order to strive to retain the aero gains teams will keep a high chassis and then have the nose cone flattened up against this 55cm maximum height. Thus we will see these platypus noses, wide and flat in order to keep the area beneath deformable structure clear for better airflow.

F1 2012: Rules, Designs and Trends | Scarbsf1's Blog (http://scarbsf1.wordpress.com/2012/01/20/f1-2012-rules-designs-and-trends/)

[CNR]

Formula 1 (http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2012/1/12954.html)

[RS]

Wow the Caterham is hideous. I suppose it's the only one we'll see with a visible step in the nose cone area though.

[whosyo]

http://www.brettdunsmore.co.uk/pics/Caterham.jpg

[whosyo]

http://images.planetf1.com/12/01/800x600/Caterham-CT01_2707656.jpg
http://www.factzoo.com/sites/all/img/mammals/platypus-diving.jpg

[yodasarmpit]

Formula 1 (http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2012/1/12954.html)

Looks quite different in the formula1.com pics, might just be the angle that the mag photo was taken at.

[Allyc85]

Ugliest F1 car ever?

[Stuartf12007]

Gross looking thing.

Still we wont be seeing much of it as it will be at the back somewhere.

[christophulus]

Oh dear, that nose looks awful. Hopefully someone else has found a more elegant solution.

The FIA must surely have known what the cars were going to look like when they changed the rules wouldn't they? Actually, don't answer that..

[VkmSpouge]

I do I love the Caterham livery (I'm glad they stuck with green and gold) but the car just looks awful. I hope it takes the team to their first points.

[big_sw2000]

Looks quite different in the formula1.com pics, might just be the angle that the mag photo was taken at.

Thats last years car pictures

[52Paddy]

The Caterham has a kind of 'snow plough' look about it.

[CNR]

Interview: Mike Gascoyne introduces the Caterham F1 CT01 - SkiddMark (http://skiddmark.com/2012/01/mike-gascoyne-introduces-the-caterham-f1-ct01/)
front view it doesn't look too bad

[jens]

Ugliest F1 car ever?

Considering that we had to get used to 2009 cars/regulations, which were completely different compared to what we had before, I think we can adapt to anything now. :)
This nose section may look slightly strange at first glance, but generally I'm completely fine with the car.

[The Black Knight]

Considering that we had to get used to 2009 cars/regulations, which were completely different compared to what we had before, I think we can adapt to anything now. :)
This nose section may look slightly strange at first glance, but generally I'm completely fine with the car.

Completely agree with that. It's different but that doesn't mean it's ugly. I thought the 2009 cars were ugly at first, but like everything else that goes fast you eventually come to love it!

[DazzlaF1]

Completely agree with that. It's different but that doesn't mean it's ugly. I thought the 2009 cars were ugly at first, but like everything else that goes fast you eventually come to love it!

Absolutely, here's a clearer view of it

http://www.yallaf1.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/f1-racing-uk-pic1.jpg

Personally I think despite the regulations, It looks OK, any ugliness in terms of design in my view is evened out by that livery which has been my personal favourite over the last 3 years, so im glad they decided to keep it when they dropped the Lotus name

[shazbot]

I like it cos its got a yellow stripe and its green and black and white and I like it 'cos its nice and i like it.

[TheFamousEccles]

All it needs is some eyes and teeth, maybe some subtle scale-like detail under the paint. That would be cool as! :D

[Civic]

Makes the Dallara DW12 IndyCar look like a modern art masterpiece.

[Triumph]

I have been reading on the BBC F1 website about the stepped nose designs that are expected this year and I don't understand why they have to be like that.

Why can't they simply have a smooth transitional slope from the 'peak' of the step to the front of the nose? I'm sure there's a good reason, but I can't imagine what it might be. My limited knowledge on this subject suggests to me that the step would impede airflow far more readily than a smooth slope that we are used to seeing on F1 nose sections.

Can anyone who knows about such things enlighten me as to why the step is needed, or what makes in an advantage over having a smooth slope to the nose?

:)

[RS]

Can anyone who knows about such things enlighten me as to why the step is needed, or what makes in an advantage over having a smooth slope to the nose?

:)

Maybe the whole nose cone forward of the suspension mounting points has the be lower and not just the front of the nose?

[Wasted Talent]

According to Pat Symonds on the Motorsport Magazine January podcast it is because the FIA have kept the existing front bulkhead specification (including size and height above the ground) but the teams want the front end to be lower, so all the cars will look like a platypus

Looks stupid to me

WT

[Triumph]

RS and WT,

It seems odd that they would specify the nose cone having to be lower than the bulkhead in its entirety, if indeed that is the case. I can't imagine what technical reason there would be for that to be the case, unless the specific requirement was to force the teams to spoil the appearance of their cars.

I still can't see why they aren't able to simply smooth out the point from the top of the step to the front of the nose.

[CNR]

BBC Sport - Caterham target points with new F1 car (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/mobile/formula_one/16727904.stm)


Gascoyne said: "The rules for the lower noses have dictated a development direction and I'm sure we won't be the worst-looking one out there. I think it's going to be a common theme.

"They [F1 officials] want to limit the heights of noses for the shunts when a car hits another car's tyre and (risks) taking off.

[Wasted Talent]

RS and WT,

It seems odd that they would specify the nose cone having to be lower than the bulkhead in its entirety, if indeed that is the case. I can't imagine what technical reason there would be for that to be the case, unless the specific requirement was to force the teams to spoil the appearance of their cars.

I still can't see why they aren't able to simply smooth out the point from the top of the step to the front of the nose.

Sorry, yes I forgot the bit that the FIA have lowered the nose to help prevent a car getting airborne if it hits the rear of the car in front, but with the front bulkhead still in the same place as before. There must be some reason for having the step in the rules as simple aerodynamics would suggest a smooth tapering to reduce drag if nothing else

Still looks a mess

WT

[RS]

RS and WT,

It seems odd that they would specify the nose cone having to be lower than the bulkhead in its entirety, if indeed that is the case. I can't imagine what technical reason there would be for that to be the case, unless the specific requirement was to force the teams to spoil the appearance of their cars.

I still can't see why they aren't able to simply smooth out the point from the top of the step to the front of the nose.

I agree that a smooth transition to a lower nose would look nicer.

[AndyL]

Craig Scarborough has some nice diagrams of what the measurements have to be now:
F1 2012: Rules, Designs and Trends | Scarbsf1's Blog (http://scarbsf1.wordpress.com/2012/01/20/f1-2012-rules-designs-and-trends/)

[Triumph]

That's a very interesting link, thanks!

So, it seems that the stepped nose has developed that way because of what hasn't been specified as well as what has.

I presume because there was no stated requirement for a straight line between the top corners of the bulkhead, they have created the slope in a recess between those corners. If that's the case then I can understand that, but it still doesn't explain the step at those bulkhead corners and why they didn't blend the two vanes into a gradual slope towards the nose.

:)

[Wasted Talent]

Craig Scarborough has some nice diagrams of what the measurements have to be now:
F1 2012: Rules, Designs and Trends | Scarbsf1's Blog (http://scarbsf1.wordpress.com/2012/01/20/f1-2012-rules-designs-and-trends/)

Thanks for the link - something to keep a good eye on in the coming weeks

WT

[steveaki13]

I actually quite like the look of the car, but it will suddenly turn beautiful if it scores a point.

[steveaki13]

Bring on the next launch date...

[nigelred5]

wow, there has to be a more pleasing way to comply with those regulations.

[ArrowsFA1]

The best picture on the internet yet of Giorgio Piola's picture reflecting leaked details of the new Ferrari http://bit.ly/z3V9jo

@andrewbensonf1 (https://twitter.com/#!/andrewbensonf1)

[Triumph]

Judging by that picture it looks as if Ferrari have done what I wondered why Caterham hadn't done.

Unless it's just how the artist has applied the shading and highlights, it looks as if the raised corners of the bulkhead have been smoothed out towards the nose, instead of having a step.

[Dave B]

McLaren launch will be live on Sky Sports News tomorrow at 11am UK time, if you're near a telly or halfway decent internet connection.

[RS]

McLaren launch will be live on Sky Sports News tomorrow at 11am UK time, if you're near a telly or halfway decent internet connection.

I wish the F1 Channel was already launched and then I could watch it. I don't have Sky Sports News.

[RS]

Having just checked, I do have Sky Sports News on my Sky package... However I will be at work so I will watch it on McLaren's website.

[DazzlaF1]

McLaren launch will be live on Sky Sports News tomorrow at 11am UK time, if you're near a telly or halfway decent internet connection.

I have SSN and it's my day off from work so that's my morning sorted :beer:

[DazzlaF1]

On SSN in about 5 minutes, looks like under the covers that it's a flat nose all the way unlike the Caterhams stepped up part

[DazzlaF1]

It is a flat nose and they've ditched those L shaped side pods, overall very pretty

[ArrowsFA1]

The Caterham looks even sillier now :p

[CaptainRaiden]

Looks a LOT like their 2010 car:

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/191701.jpg

[CaptainRaiden]

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/191703.jpg

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/191708.jpg

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/191699.jpg

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/191698.jpg

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/191697.jpg

[The Black Knight]

That is one sexy looking beast. Beautiful looking car. Definitely hotter than the Caterham. You'd make love the McLaren. The Catherham would only get a grope :D

[CaptainRaiden]

Looks jaw droppingly beautiful in this pic: Wowee!! :eek:

http://badgergp.com/images/2012/02/Screen-Shot-2012-02-01-at-11.46.40.png

[CaptainRaiden]

http://badgergp.com/images/2012/02/Screen-Shot-2012-02-01-at-11.46.18.png

[Wasted Talent]

That is one sexy looking beast. Beautiful looking car. Definitely hotter than the Caterham. You'd make love the McLaren. The Catherham would only get a grope :D

In comparison the Caterham wouldn't even get a grope! Looks like the broken nose isn't a must with the revised rules which is good news.

The McLaren looks fantastic, hopefully we will see Jenson and Lewis finishing 1 and 2 at the season's end!

WT

[The Black Knight]

In comparison the Caterham wouldn't even get a grope! Looks like the broken nose isn't a must with the revised rules which is good news.

The McLaren looks fantastic, hopefully we will see Jenson and Lewis finishing 1 and 2 at the season's end!

WT

Ah it would definitely get a pity grope. I don't think the Caterham is that bad honeslty.

[RS]

The McLaren is a very nice looking car, makes the Caterham look like an old Benetton.

[Stuartf12007]

What a STUNNING machine, its makes that Caterham thing look like an abomination

[AndyL]

In comparison the Caterham wouldn't even get a grope! Looks like the broken nose isn't a must with the revised rules which is good news.

The McLaren was already one of the cars with a relatively low nose though. Here's a post on f1technical where someone's done a graphical comparison of the 2011 cars against the 2012 nose dimensions:
Comparison of 2011 noses with the rule changes - Forum - F1technical.net (http://www.f1technical.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=11660)

[AndyL]

Just watching the McLaren launch on Sky+... Lewis says Felipe should be pleased to hear McLaren have improved their mirrors :D

[Brown, Jon Brow]

The McLaren looks sexy but fairly conservative.

[AussieV8]

IMHO the McLaren MP4-27 is one of the best looking F1 cars in recent years.

[Hawkmoon]

The McLaren looks sexy but fairly conservative.

I was thinking the same thing. In some of the shots it looks a little bulky, but that could just be the angle and the livery.

[Dave B]

You'll have to wait a bit longer to see the new Ferrari:

New Ferrari launch cancelled because of snow (http://www.ferrari.com/English/Formula1/News/Headlines/Pages/120202_F1_New-Ferrari-launch-cancelled-because-of-snow.aspx)

[The Black Knight]

The McLaren looks sexy but fairly conservative.

I don't get how people are suggesting it looks conservative? It appears to have a very neat rear end and looks like a completely different car to their one last year. I was very surprised when I heard Witmarsh defending this. Plus, their is going to be a huge upgrade package for the third test in Barcelona, so I imagine by the time the car gets to Australia it will look and feel completely different. We really won't know if they have been conservative until the first race in Australia, but I really doubt they have been.

[truefan72]

looks nice an sexy, but all I care about it is it being as fast as the red bulls on those medium paced tracks.

I agree that it is both a welcomed departure from the norm, while sorta still being a bit conservative at the same time.
L shaped ducts are gone, and the nose looks a bit wider too

[wedge]

The McLaren looks sexy but fairly conservative.

Sidepods is where its at. RBR inspired aggressive coke bottle. Would be nice if they removed the cowling for the public to look at the packaging.

It's clearly semi-finished show car. The rear diffuser is blanked off and the exhausts look like a show piece item.

[TheFamousEccles]

Sweet mate. Fully!

[driveace]

Lets hope its fast out of the box,and as fast if not faster than the Bulls,and those red Italian cars !

[DazzlaF1]

9am this morning on Sky Sports News is the Force India launch, expect a newish look due to their new backing from Sahara

[Mia 01]

Hope is the last thing that dies.

[DazzlaF1]

Well they've gone down the CATERHAM route in terms of the nose, the livery is sweet

[RS]

The Force India is actually a pretty nice car. The nose looks odd from the side but front on it's quite ok and not as ugly as the Caterham or Ferrari somehow.

FI seem to be a team which are going places with their progress last year and signing to strong young drivers. Kind of going in the opposite way to Williams of late.

The Ferrari is certainly different to previous Ferraris but it looks a right mess overall.

It's nice that this year we are seeing a bit of variation in the designs.

[CNR]

Ferrari launches its 2012 F1 car - F1 news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97278)
Ferrari launches its 2012 F1 car
that is ugly

[The Black Knight]

Both Ferrari and Force India are so ugly. They are uglier than the Caterham. The Ferrari in particular is one of the ugliest things I've ever seen.

[big_sw2000]

Not nice from any angle the Ferrari

Ferrari launches 2012 F1 car - Yahoo! Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/03022012/58/ferrari-launches-2012-f1-car.html)

[Azumanga Davo]

The stupid thing about the Ferrari? It looks like it could work very well. But the proof is in the pudding of course. If it doesn't work, Ferrari will have an ugly and useless car to the majority of people.

I do like the idea of it's brave concept, though...

[AndyL]

Not nice from any angle the Ferrari

Ferrari launches 2012 F1 car - Yahoo! Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/03022012/58/ferrari-launches-2012-f1-car.html)

Wow, Luca wasn't kidding was he.

[Hawkmoon]

Ferrari launches its 2012 F1 car - F1 news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97278)
Ferrari launches its 2012 F1 car
that is ugly

If it were a baby the doctor would have slapped the mother.

I still don't understand the benefit of the 'platypus nose'. The rules don't dictate the step in the nose, just that the nose has to be lower. McLaren went for a conventional nose and presumably have met the required height. I guess we'll see what Newey comes up with. I bet if the Red Bull has a platypus the McLaren fans around here will be a little worried.

[Dave B]

I'll forgive the Caterham and FI for being ugly, but a Ferrari should theoretically be a thing of beauty. To see such a hideous car decked out in that livery jars the senses. Still, if it's quick I don't suppose anybody will care.

So far though it's only the McLaren which looks good.

[The Black Knight]

If it were a baby the doctor would have slapped the mother.

I still don't understand the benefit of the 'platypus nose'. The rules don't dictate the step in the nose, just that the nose has to be lower. McLaren went for a conventional nose and presumably have met the required height. I guess we'll see what Newey comes up with. I bet if the Red Bull has a platypus the McLaren fans around here will be a little worried.

I won't really. Theoretically the less bumps in a car the more aerodynamically efficient it should be. It's quite possible the McLaren have stolen the edge from some teams. There are advantages and disadvantages to both approaches but personally I feel the McLaren is probably going to work better.

[The Black Knight]

Not nice from any angle the Ferrari

Ferrari launches 2012 F1 car - Yahoo! Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/03022012/58/ferrari-launches-2012-f1-car.html)

The ugliest Ferrari ever?

I can't ever remember a Ferrari that looked as ugly as that. It looks like an advanced piece of Lego.

[The Black Knight]

This Ferrari could be a championship winner, but its not going to win a beauty contest. Now three teams have this stepped nose design, it makes me wonder if its the right direction? We'll know after the test how they compare but for now the McLaren is a beauty in a sea of mingers it seems lol. Could McLaren have held back and maybe bring a stepped nose car to the first test I wonder? :)

Sent from my HTC Incredible S using Tapatalk

I was thinking about this but I doubt it. What they might have in mind is something innovative like they had with the F-Duct. Whitmarsh has stated that the car will look totally different by the time it gets to Australia though, so you'd never know, they might go with the stepped nose yet but I really hope they don't.

[Dave B]

If you've got a spare 13 and a half minutes there's a good technical piece on the BBC website with Gary Anderson explaining some details of the new McLaren.

It's also to note that sometimes a notepad and a pen can be more useful than a 103" HD Skypad!

BBC Sport - Gary Anderson deconstructs the new McLaren MP4-27 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/16864721)

[SGWilko]

The ugliest Ferrari ever?

Only if it goes like it looks! If it is a winner, it'll be beautiful.

Bloody hope it is quick, cos it looks like a bulldog chewing a wasp!

[RS]

The ugliest Ferrari ever?

I can't ever remember a Ferrari that looked as ugly as that.

That one where they changed from a low nose to the raised nose half way through the year was pretty bad (with the raised nose)

[SGWilko]

That one where they changed from a low nose to the raised nose half way through the year was pretty bad (with the raised nose)

Wasn't that when they also had those tall head protection areas that were taller than something really tall?

[Wasted Talent]

The new Ferrari looks like something made from lego............ugly, just ugly. I really hope that these stepped nose cars are slow.

WT

[ArrowsFA1]

Ferrari could have cleared the snow at Maranello with that car!!

[SGWilko]

Ferrari could have cleared the snow at Maranello with that car!!

It'd clear an auditorium in no time - fugly!

It's a BOBNOC

[AndyL]

I was thinking about this but I doubt it. What they might have in mind is something innovative like they had with the F-Duct. Whitmarsh has stated that the car will look totally different by the time it gets to Australia though, so you'd never know, they might go with the stepped nose yet but I really hope they don't.

Yes I agree, unlikely I think. As I mentioned earlier in the thread, last year's McLaren already had a nose that was lower than most others and already quite close to this year's dimensions. That's why they haven't needed to put a step in. If they didn't think a super-high nose was necessary last year, I can't see them bringing in a compromise stepped nose this year.

[DazzlaF1]

Any criticism of the Caterham is forgiven after seeing that Ferrari, that thing is vomit inducing

[N4D13]

I suppose I'm the only one who likes the Ferrari. It's just that any F1 car painted in rosso corsa looks great to me.

By the way, what do you think about the Ferrari's front push-rod suspension? It's rather strange, isn't it?

[CaptainRaiden]

If the Ferrari is as fast as it is ugly, do you think it will create a new world record for the ugliest car ever to win the championship?

[Hawkmoon]

The ugliest Ferrari ever?

I can't ever remember a Ferrari that looked as ugly as that. It looks like an advanced piece of Lego.

The 1979 312T4 was described by Enzo Ferrari s the ugliest car he'd ever built. It won both championships.


That one where they changed from a low nose to the raised nose half way through the year was pretty bad (with the raised nose)

Do you mean the 1996 F310? Schumi managed to drag 3 wins out of it but was neither fast nor pretty.

[F1boat]

The 1979 312T4 was described by Enzo Ferrari s the ugliest car he'd ever built. It won both championships.


I hope that the new car does the same.

[SGWilko]

By the way, what do you think about the Ferrari's front push-rod suspension? It's rather strange, isn't it?

Very strange - given that is pull-rod not push-rod. Last team to do that at the front....?

Minardi!

[RS]

Do you mean the 1996 F310? Schumi managed to drag 3 wins out of it but was neither fast nor pretty.

Yes, this one:

http://static.blogo.it/motorsportblog/f310b.JPG

[SGWilko]

Yes, this one:

http://static.blogo.it/motorsportblog/f310b.JPG

Gee, thanks - I just brought up a little bit of sick........

[wedge]

If you've got a spare 13 and a half minutes there's a good technical piece on the BBC website with Gary Anderson explaining some details of the new McLaren.

It's also to note that sometimes a notepad and a pen can be more useful than a 103" HD Skypad!

BBC Sport - Gary Anderson deconstructs the new McLaren MP4-27 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/16864721)


If you don't have 13mins to spare: Launch Analysis: McLaren Mercedes MP4-27 | Scarbsf1's Blog (http://scarbsf1.wordpress.com/2012/02/02/launch-analysis-mclaren-mercedes-mp4-27/)



Very strange - given that is pull-rod not push-rod. Last team to do that at the front....?

Minardi!

Even with high front end chassis concept apparently there's minimal CoG benefit with pull rod design.

The only rumour proven correct: Ferrari are blowing their rear brake ducts!

Here you can see the exhaust are pointing to the rear brake ducting and the intricate duct cum diffuser

http://a.yfrog.com/img877/2949/cwwoe.jpg

http://a.yfrog.com/img738/19/wunqs.jpg

http://scarbsf1.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/csc_2012_rbd_blow.jpg


Also blowing the rear brake ducts is an avenue worth exploring. The exhaust geometry doesn’t work quite so well in this area. Brake duct vanes, which we have seen proliferate over the past few years are allowed to be 120mm inboard of the rear wheel, roughly in line with the wheel and can protrude forwards the front perimeter of the tyre. But as some of the brake duct is ahead of the rear axle line there is less surface to blow on.
This might still be better than rear wing blowing, as the downforce is produced directly on the unsprung wheel, rather than passing through the suspension. The benefits of this over rear wing blowing would need a simulation to establish the better path.
Practicalities of heat shielding the rear brake ducts are already understood from EBDs which already apply of the exhaust plume over their surfaces. Also tricky would the positioning of the brake cooling snorkel, but again this is not insurmountable.

http://scarbsf1.wordpress.com/2011/10/26/2012-exhaust-position-and-blown-effects/

[Sonic]

Well, at least with only half the races on the box this year I only have to look at these ugly munters for ten races. :-/

I know it shouldn't matter what a car looks like, but it so does.

[The Black Knight]

A F1 car is very much like a woman, unless she looks pretty you're unlikely to want to take her for a ride.

[mix2000]

Sometimes, any port in a storm!! :)

[Zico]

Every season when the new cars come out I find it strange that you guys either love or repulsed by the look of these machines. I actually find nearly all F1 cars to be pretty ugly which is a pity... but hardly surprising when its main design aims dictated by being purely functional with astheticly pleasing design aspects probably the very last thing on the agenda. I apreciate a fantastic design which offers a performance advantage but thats all it is.

Am I alone in this?

[AndyL]

Every season when the new cars come out I find it strange that you guys either love or repulsed by the look of these machines. I actually find nearly all F1 cars to be pretty ugly which is a pity... but hardly surprising when its main design aims dictated by being purely functional with astheticly pleasing design aspects probably the very last thing on the agenda. I apreciate a fantastic design which offers a performance advantage but thats all it is.

Am I alone in this?

I would agree they've all been pretty ugly since about 1968.

All relative I guess. The 2012 McLaren is no E-Type, but it's a looker compared to the Ferrari.

[race aficionado]

So sue me if this has already been posted - but now being an avid Marca fan (Barca) - it also has FA news and it offered this view of the new and last year's Ferrari.

Compara el nuevo Ferrari F2012 con su antecesor - MARCA.com (http://www.marca.com/2012/02/03/multimedia/graficos/1328275973.html)

* be sure to slide the bottom bar when offered the option.

[SGWilko]

I would agree they've all been pretty ugly since about 1968.

'89 Ferrari, '91 Williams & Jordan, '93 McLaren and '95 Ferrari were all beautiful cars.......

[AndyL]

'89 Ferrari, '91 Williams & Jordan, '93 McLaren and '95 Ferrari were all beautiful cars.......

All in the eye of the beholder... personally I think wings look much better on birds and aeroplanes than on cars :)

[ioan]

Wasn't that when they also had those tall head protection areas that were taller than something really tall?

yep, I think it was the B version of the 96 car. Still a beauty compared to this abomination.

[Zico]

All in the eye of the beholder... personally I think wings look much better on birds and aeroplanes than on cars :)

+1..

[mix2000]

Always liked the 88 Rial, Doesn't equate to speed though.

[Priorat]

this Ferrari is really nice...
if you compare it to 1995 McLaren

[mstillhere]

I hear that what we saw is not the nose McLaren is going to race with. It would a have a nose "a la" Ferrari as well. The are waiting until the last minute 'cause they might have a "little" secret they don't want anybody to see it.

[truefan72]

The ugliest Ferrari ever?

I can't ever remember a Ferrari that looked as ugly as that. It looks like an advanced piece of Lego.

I can remember a few
in the late 70's early 80's
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3250/3145096208_17f4dd2006_z.jpg?zz=1

[truefan72]

If it were a baby the doctor would have slapped the mother.

I still don't understand the benefit of the 'platypus nose'. The rules don't dictate the step in the nose, just that the nose has to be lower. McLaren went for a conventional nose and presumably have met the required height. I guess we'll see what Newey comes up with. I bet if the Red Bull has a platypus the McLaren fans around here will be a little worried.

I agree, I'd be a bit worried

[call_me_andrew]

Good joke! Now where's the real Ferrari?

[philipbain]

Anyone noticed that the Ferrari F2012 has pull-rod front suspension? I believe the last Ferrari F1 car to use this front suspension geometry was their 1987 / 1988 car!

[jens]

I'm fine with the new cars, might look a bit like lego, but then again something different and unique. :) For some reason Ferrari reminds me 2009 Renault, which was a very bulky car. But I got used to the "lego Renault" back then, so no worries any more. I think the most important thing here is that finally Ferrari has gone aggressive with a so-called 'clean sheet' design, while in previous seasons they have mostly had "evolutions" and not really shone as a result. We'll see if this pays off.

Force India looks nice, also the stepped nose fits well into design. I hope it is fast too, I think their targeted top5 in WCC is certainly achievable, considering progress shown last year.

But I find intriguing that McLaren is the only team so far, who has gone via an alternative route. Will it pay off or not? Eager to find out. At least we have some variety in design philosophies and it will make the development race an exciting challenge throughout the season.

[52Paddy]

I haven't seen any links posted for the new Force India so here is one: Force India unveil 2012 car as Paul di Resta takes to Silverstone track | Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/formulaone/article-2095956/Force-India-unveil-2012-car-Paul-di-Resta-takes-Silverstone-track.html)

I'm not a fan of how Ferrari have acutely angled the sidepods. I think that is the most ugly aspect of the car. The nose is awful and, in my opinion, Force India have made it blend nicer into the shape of the car. I quite like the Force India.

The first test will be interesting.

[wedge]

I'm not a fan of how Ferrari have acutely angled the sidepods. I think that is the most ugly aspect of the car.


In what way?

McLaren U shaped sidepods is influential even if it supposedly has little effect on the current cars.

There's a very subtle U curvature on the top profile, whereas McLaren's slope downwards.

Force India's sidepods are plain, simple undercut and nothing adventurous.

[Triumph]

I've just seen the new Ferrari on the BBC F1 website. I'm surprised it has the stepped nose like the Caterham. I would have thought that Ferrari would have at least put form closer to function on the list of priorities, but anyway, let's see how it performs in the races.

:-)

[CNR]

(Humour) Ferrari unveil their new car
The F1 Times | (Humour) Ferrari unveil their new car (http://www.thef1times.com/community/display/00512)

[Triumph]

Haha! Now that is funny! :-)

[TheFamousEccles]

So sue me if this has already been posted - but now being an avid Marca fan (Barca) - it also has FA news and it offered this view of the new and last year's Ferrari.

Compara el nuevo Ferrari F2012 con su antecesor - MARCA.com (http://www.marca.com/2012/02/03/multimedia/graficos/1328275973.html)

* be sure to slide the bottom bar when offered the option.

Great link. Thanks for posting.

[RS]

Lotus is supposed to be launching right now on Autosport.com and LotusF1Team.com but neither appear to be working.

It is here though: http://www.youtube.com/user/lrgptv?blend=1&ob=0

[DazzlaF1]

Lotus is supposed to be launching right now on Autosport.com and LotusF1Team.com but neither appear to be working.

It is here though: http://www.youtube.com/user/lrgptv?blend=1&ob=0

Not working for me either But i've just seen it now and they've gone with the ugly nose concept too, either McLaren have got around it cleverly or they've missed a trick here

[DazzlaF1]

http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/lotus_e20.jpg

[race aficionado]

Another nice MARCA link with some head turners . . . . :
The ugliest F1 cars in F1 history:

MARCH TABLA DE SURF - Fotogalería - MARCA.com (http://www.marca.com/albumes/2012/02/05/f1_mas_feos_historia/index.html)

[F1boat]

http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/lotus_e20.jpg

This nose again!

[Dr. Krogshöj]

We have reached a certain point: from now on, people complaining about the nose are more annoying than the nose itself.

[Norwegian Blue]

Yet somehow with that livery they pull it off... Looks better than the Lotus Indycar!

[steveaki13]

I personally don't mind the new car designs. I like the different styles. i.e Force India looks better than Ferrari despite the same style of nose, Mclaren have gone a different route, lets hope the remaining teams have a few different ideas.

[truefan72]

lotus looks nice
despite the nose

you just can't go wrong with a black and gold livery

[CNR]

RB8 Unveiled On February 6 (http://www.redbullracing.com/cs/Satellite/en_INT/Article/RB8-Unveiled-On-February-6-021243150755392)

Red Bull Racing’s 2012 challenger will be revealed on redbullracing.com on Monday, February 6 at 1pm UK time.

[CNR]

Boss admits launch McLaren had (http://www.inautonews.com/boss-admits-launch-mclaren-had-plastic-exhausts)

Martin Whitmarsh has admitted that the launch version of McLaren’s new MP4-27 car featured a dummy diffuser and ‘plastic’ exhaust exits.
With exhaust-blown diffusers effectively banned for 2012, the big technical talking point will be how the designers claw back that lost downforce.

[The Black Knight]

So sue me if this has already been posted - but now being an avid Marca fan (Barca) - it also has FA news and it offered this view of the new and last year's Ferrari.

Compara el nuevo Ferrari F2012 con su antecesor - MARCA.com (http://www.marca.com/2012/02/03/multimedia/graficos/1328275973.html)

* be sure to slide the bottom bar when offered the option.

Quality. Thanks.

[SGWilko]

Not working for me either But i've just seen it now and they've gone with the ugly nose concept too, either McLaren have got around it cleverly or they've missed a trick here

No trick been missed as I see it. In 2011, high noses were allowed, and most teams followed the high nose philosophy to maximise the airflow under the nose and to the underfloor/diffuser. McLaren had found a solution that did not require such a high nose, and even though they were allowed to run such a high nose, they chose not to and still had the/one of the fastest cars out there in race trim.

FFWD to 2012 and those teams with the Barbara Streisand/Fiat Multipla noses have clearly continued this under nose airflow philosophy, and in order to achieve this within the rules we wind up with the glorious hook nose. There is no way in hell that the step is not gonna cause an airflow interruption.

McLaren have merely continued on their merry way with their own philosophy. No panic methinks.

[CNR]

Sauber unveils its 2012 F1 car at Jerez - F1 news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97335)
Sauber looks ok
http://i40.tinypic.com/333h9i0.jpg

[airshifter]

FFWD to 2012 and those teams with the Barbara Streisand/Fiat Multipla noses have clearly continued this under nose airflow philosophy, and in order to achieve this within the rules we wind up with the glorious hook nose. There is no way in hell that the step is not gonna cause an airflow interruption.



With so many teams leaving the nose bump up in place, it must be of less aerodynamic concern than we think it is. I'm sure even the smallest team could do some better blending than that. I'd like to see some wind tunnel smoke trail testing and see just what is going on.

First impression is that those bumps really take away from the lines of the cars, but as more cars lauch it seems to be less distracting on some.

[RS]

Sauber not bad, the low noses look less bad on some cars than others.

Red Bull at 1pm UK time (2pm CET)

[SGWilko]

With so many teams leaving the nose bump up in place, it must be of less aerodynamic concern than we think it is.

If they want the larger free space under the nose, they have no choice, and the stepped height change, due to the regs, presents their 'best compromise'.

If such an angular step in the airflow was not an issue, they'd be driving around in barn doors!

[Wasted Talent]

Red Bull stepped too.....

Could be the ugliest year in F1 for a while

WT

[Big Ben]

loads of wishful thinking from the McLaren's fans going on here... don't worry guys.... It might work or maybe it's a nose just for show....

[SGWilko]

loads of wishful thinking from the McLaren's fans going on here... don't worry guys.... It might work or maybe it's a nose just for show....

Whichever car does eventually win the championship, I guess it'll 'win by a nose'.

Ba dum....................





















...........tisssshhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! :laugh:

[ArrowsFA1]

The Dallara Indycar looks better by the day :p :

[steveaki13]

I like the Sauber. I like the slightly more interesting livery, although I would like to see a return of the old Blue, Green and Yellow Livery (1996-2005)

As for Red Bull, all I have seen is a dark video and drawings. Has anyone got a link to a photo.

[truefan72]

loads of wishful thinking from the McLaren's fans going on here... don't worry guys.... It might work or maybe it's a nose just for show....

LOL way to predict doom & gloom even before the first test
I think mclaren are smart here
they are doing their own thing and we will see after the first (and possibly second test) where things shake out.
And I'm sure they have a back up plan with that ugly step nose if need be, but for now, they need to focus on their own thing.
The way I see it, these teams are trying to figure out what mclaren did with the low nose in 2011 which was well within the 2012 rules and they still were pretty darn fast and competitive.

BTW, I thought these teams were suppose to design cars independently and yet somehow, without collusion or talking to each other they all "miraculously" came out with the same exact step nose solution to the car.
I guess Max Moselsy wasn't far off with his idea of a standardized chasis in F1.

[SGWilko]

BTW, I thought these teams were suppose to design cars independently and yet somehow, without collusion or talking to each other they all "miraculously" came out with the same exact step nose solution to the car.
I guess Max Moselsy wasn't far off with his idea of a standardized chasis in F1.

With the EBD's gone for 2012, and the new nose regs, the easiest way to get the most air around/under the car is by having a nose as high as possible. That is what, thus far, most of the chaps have done.

Only the Maccas, who already had a low nose anyway, have continued on their own path.

[SGWilko]

The RB looks to have an inlet incorporated into the nose height step.........

[shazbot]

With so many teams leaving the nose bump up in place, it must be of less aerodynamic concern than we think it is. I'd like to see some wind tunnel smoke trail testing and see just what is going.

That's odd. So you think F1 teams with multi million pound wind tunnels and some of the worlds most talented aerodynamicists might know more than the posters on this forum? Smoke trails! Really?

[SGWilko]

That's odd. So you think F1 teams with multi million pound wind tunnels and some of the worlds most talented aerodynamicists might know more than the posters on this forum? Smoke trails! Really?

The key point the wind tunnel guys will want to know is;

Does the benefit of running a high nose outweigh the turbulence caused by the boil on the cars nose?

The answer must be yes, obviously. But the behaviour of a wind tunnel is different to the real effect on a race track.

[shazbot]

In my experiencd the area of the chassis being discussed is fairly insensitive aero wise believe it or not.

[wedge]

Some sort of cooling inlet or aero device on RBR8?

http://www.f1talks.pl/wp-content/gallery/rb8/rb8_08.jpg

RBR blowing rear brake ducts

http://www.f1talks.pl/wp-content/gallery/rb8/rb8_12.jpg

[SGWilko]

Some sort of cooling inlet or aero device on RBR8?

http://www.f1talks.pl/wp-content/gallery/rb8/rb8_08.jpg

RBR blowing rear brake ducts

http://www.f1talks.pl/wp-content/gallery/rb8/rb8_12.jpg

Could be to stall the flow and cause the following airflow to spill over and around the side of the nose.

[wedge]

McLaren have merely continued on their merry way with their own philosophy. No panic methinks.

They've had the low nose concept for years but also struggled with getting to grips at the start of the season with rear downforce and rake and understanding its narrow window. McLaren have generally never been quick straight out of the box in recent years.

So will the new nose be a help or a hindrance?

As for the noses I've started to grown accustomed to them. Like the narrow rear wings they look odd and ugly to begin with.

[wedge]

Could be to stall the flow and cause the following airflow to spill over and around the side of the nose.

I'm an enthusiast and not an aerodynamicist but it appears it's a funny way of doing it. I've read somewhere Ferrari's blunt approach was the optimum.

[RS]

As for the noses I've started to grown accustomed to them. Like the narrow rear wings they look odd and ugly to begin with.

I thought that too but changed my mind again when I saw them on track:

Photos - Lotus E20 first run - GPUpdate.net (http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-photos/8196/lotus-e20-first-run/)

Photos - Sauber C31 first run - GPUpdate.net (http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-photos/8197/sauber-c31-first-run/)

[big_sw2000]

Some sort of cooling inlet or aero device on RBR8?

http://www.f1talks.pl/wp-content/gallery/rb8/rb8_08.jpg

RBR blowing rear brake ducts

http://www.f1talks.pl/wp-content/gallery/rb8/rb8_12.jpg

Could this some how be directed towards the diffusser. Not reading the rules to well. I know exhaust blown diffusser are banned, but is this some way around it.

[SGWilko]

I thought that too but changed my mind again when I saw them on track:

Photos - Lotus E20 first run - GPUpdate.net (http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-photos/8196/lotus-e20-first-run/)

Photos - Sauber C31 first run - GPUpdate.net (http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-photos/8197/sauber-c31-first-run/)

Geezus! How much movement in that front wing on the Lotus was Renault. It's about as extreme an angle as the Costa Conwhatsitsname!

[F1boat]

After Red Bull revealed the same nose, maybe that's really the best decision, but on the other hand, McLaren might have been doing their own and better thing, as truefan said. I think that we won't know the truth until Q3 in Oz, because in recent years testing has become notoriously unreliable indicator - Red Bull sandbagged in 2010 and McLaren looked crap last year, if only to come as a decent challenger. For me it is also interesting what are Mercedes GP doing - the fact that they are so late maybe hints for even more original solutions. These designs, however, have made the new season more interesting for me and maybe a tad more unpredictable. Obviously the new rules forced the teams to change their designs - which means that a new order might appear!

[Big Ben]

LOL way to predict doom & gloom even before the first test

:rolleyes: I didn't make any prediction there :rolleyes: In fact my point was we should wait and see if it works or if it's the 'real' nose and not just a nicer one for the presentation... before explaining already why it's better

[jens]

McLaren did their 'own thing' last year too - with the sidepods. In the end it didn't turn out to be the best car, but was still pretty good, even if they were having troubles in testing. Had McLaren gone with conventional sidepods in 2011, is there a reason to think the season would have been notably different? So in the end the nose itself may not make that much difference at all and most probably the defining factors, which decide the ranking of the teams, lie elsewhere.

[RS]

Torro Rosso:

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/192108.jpg

Looks a lot like an Red Bull RB7 with a new nosecone. Designed "in house" my a$s....

[RS]

Williams livery looks a little primitive, especially on the drivers suits:

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/192113.jpg

Let's hope the car is a step forward for them.

[F1boat]

Williams livery looks a little primitive, especially on the drivers suits:

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/192113.jpg

Let's hope the car is a step forward for them.
I'd say old school. :)

[wedge]

McLaren did their 'own thing' last year too - with the sidepods. In the end it didn't turn out to be the best car, but was still pretty good, even if they were having troubles in testing. Had McLaren gone with conventional sidepods in 2011, is there a reason to think the season would have been notably different?

There was nothing wrong with McLaren's sidepods. Their problems last year was due to the complexity of the octopus exhaust layout which was crap, not to mention rear downforce via the floor and rake.

If U-shaped sidepods were so crap then why on earth has it influenced this year's car which has a sloping angle?

http://scarbsf1.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/mp4-27_sidepodfronts.jpg




ScarbsF1: Can you tell us about why the concept’s changed, why you don’t feel that was a benefit this year?

Tim Goss: Last year’s U-shaped side-pod worked very well with what we were trying to achieve last year with the exhaust layout, it was all intended at creating more down wash to the rear end, and it performed particularly well last year. This year at a fairly early stage we set about a different approach to both the external and the internal aerodynamics of the car, and then once the exhaust regulations started to become a little bit clearer then it was quite obvious to us that the U-shaped side-pod no longer fitted in with both the internal aerodynamics and some of the external aerodynamics that we pursued early on. So it works, it worked very well last year, but it’s actually just not suited to what we’re trying to achieve this year.”

Launch Analysis: McLaren Mercedes MP4-27 | Scarbsf1's Blog (http://scarbsf1.wordpress.com/2012/02/02/launch-analysis-mclaren-mercedes-mp4-27/)





*double take* the pillars on the new Williams barely supporting the front wing!

http://a.yfrog.com/img877/8528/uk0g.png

Sauber have slot vent just behind its step.

http://s1-02.twitpicproxy.com/photos/large/511621230.jpg

[AndyL]

If U-shaped sidepods were so crap then why on earth has it influenced this year's car which has a sloping angle?

And the Ferrari too.

[SGWilko]

The U shaped sidepods were a development aimed specifically at complimenting the EBD. With that avenue now closed off, a different philosophy has to be pursued, and the new exhaust regs make a severe U shape nigh on impossible to achieve.

[Tazio]

Mercedes has released a teaser of the W03.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/419297_10150536996897411_79511407410_9043828_14657 23723_n.jpg

I hope they are competitive at the pointy end of the races. I'd like to see Britney get his first win. I'd also like to see Mike duking it out at the front as well, but I'm not holding my breath on either one.

[ArrowsFA1]

The new Mercedes W03 broke cover for the first time at Silverstone on Thursday, completing its first run ahead of its maiden test at Barcelona next week.

First picture of new Mercedes as W03 runs at Silverstone - F1 news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97553)

[Tazio]

The gyroscopic camera view made me sea sick. Could someone pass me the scopolamine :p



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzJqTxaF_iM

[Flying lap]

I'm probably wrong, but I seriously doubt this is the car we will see next tuesday in Barcelona.

[Tazio]

Here is another image
http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/mercedes_w03_2012_2.jpg

and another one in high resolution:

http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/merc_rosb_jere_2012-1.jpg
Left click to zoom.

[truefan72]

that is one serious steering wheel mercedes has. It's getting a bit much now with the buttons imo
as to the W03 looks to be like its falling into line like all the other 2012 cars. Although the step nose seems more conservative like the ferrari's

[i_max2k2]

Here is another image
http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/mercedes_w03_2012_2.jpg

and another one in high resolution:

http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/merc_rosb_jere_2012-1.jpg
Left click to zoom.

From the high res image it seems there is another air intake right where it says E, and its blowing air to the brake ducts as well or atleast it looks like that.

[Tazio]

From the high res image it seems there is another air intake right where it says E, and its blowing air to the brake ducts as well or atleast it looks like that.
Most definitely. I'm by no means an expert in these matters but If I had to take a wild guess; the intake by the E may be there to accelerate, and or cool exhaust gases over the rear aero parts by creating a venturi affect. Please don't quote me on this, because it is just a wild guess (unless I'm right) :blackeye:

[Flying lap]

Here is another image
http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/mercedes_w03_2012_2.jpg

and another one in high resolution:

http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/merc_rosb_jere_2012-1.jpg
Left click to zoom.


Second link is thw W02

[Tazio]

Second link is thw W02
I stand corrected :blackeye: :blackeye:

[Flying lap]

Check this one. Its the same car.

Michael Schumacher, Mercedes GP Petronas F1 Team | Main gallery | Photos | Motorsport.com (http://www.motorsport.com/f1/photo/main-gallery/michael-schumacher-mercedes-gp-petronas-f1-team-121/?d=61&y=2011&s=2&id=1260979&i=205)

[TheFamousEccles]

I love the sense of perspective you get from the overhead shot of the DTM and the F1 Mercedes parked together. Sweet looking racing cars both of 'em, IMO.

[AJP]

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d119/ajesser/sideview2012.jpg

Hope this link works...

side view of all 2012 cars

[The Black Knight]

I was in Barcelona last week for two days of the testing. From what I saw there the McLaren looks very good on slow speed corners and gets on the power slightly earlier than the Red Bulls but I think the RBR still generates more downforce through the high speed ones than the McLaren, not much appears to have changed in that area since last year. McLaren have a huge upgrade coming for the next test which might close this gap. I'm sure RBR aren't standing still either. I honestly think that Mercedes will have leap frogged Ferrari, at least at the start of the year. That Ferrari didn't look like an easy car to handle to me at all, but hard to judge this considering they are trying out so many different things at the moment. All up in the air really, but the McLarens and RBR's look close.

[CNR]

F1: Marussia Fails FIA Crash Test and Delays Launch of New Car (http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/articles/306100/20120228/formula1-marussia-vettel-mclaren-ferrari-barcelona-test.htm)
Marussia Fails FIA Crash Test and Delays Launch of New Car

The Marussia Formula 1 team has been forced to delay the launch of their 2012 challenger, following a failed FIA crash test. The team's original plan was to debut the MR01 at the final pre-season test, which starts at the Circuit de Cataluña, in Barcelona, Spain, on 1 March.
However, in a statement released on Monday night, the team said: "The Marussia F1 Team is disappointed to confirm that the planned first test of its 2012 race car - the MR01 - has been delayed as a consequence of not passing the final FIA crash test. All cars are required to pass 18 FIA-observed tests for homologation to be granted.

[Shifter]

Personal opinion time: These F1 cars are getting way too long! They look like limousines...where will it end? I'd love to see the MP4/4 parked next to a 2012 car to get a visual indicator.

[DazzlaF1]

Marussia's launch was interesting, how? Because they've gone the McLaren "non-platypus nose" approach

http://www.formula1.com/wi/597x478/manual/marussia_mr01.jpg

[RS]

HRT, not too bad looking and no dodgy nose. So McLaren are in good company after all along with Marussia and HRT!: Photos - Formula 1 launch HRT F1 Team, 5 March 2012 - GPUpdate.net (http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-photos/8224/formula-1-launch-hrt-f1-team-5-march-2012/)

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/193739.jpg

[Knock-on]

HRT, not too bad looking and no dodgy nose. So McLaren are in good company after all along with Marussia and HRT!: Photos - Formula 1 launch HRT F1 Team, 5 March 2012 - GPUpdate.net (http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-photos/8224/formula-1-launch-hrt-f1-team-5-march-2012/)

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/193739.jpg

Hate the colourscheme and despise the nose from the front . Uhh!!

http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTEtCzMysRhdA9wehI6WMwJmlUrx_kh0 GOQ3TkOUwh-heX12FkURA

[DazzlaF1]

Hate the colourscheme and despise the nose from the front . Uhh!!

http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTEtCzMysRhdA9wehI6WMwJmlUrx_kh0 GOQ3TkOUwh-heX12FkURA
I have to agree, that livery is meh. Plus I cant help but notice that it looks like last years car except with an uptated front wing. Hvae a funny feeling Marussia will pull away from them significantly as the season goes on

[steveaki13]

Just glad to see an HRT of some kind on track, whether they will make it to Oz or to within 107% we will have to wait and see

[Rubi]

Cars are looking good. :) Hope Ferrari will do better this year.

[Tazio]

Ferrari car fix means new crash test | Forumula1.com | F1 News | Formula 1 Forums | Formula One Discussion (http://www.forumula1.com/2012/f1/f1-news/ferrari-car-fix-means-new-crash-test-report/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Forumula1-News+%28Forumula1.net+-+F1+News%29)
The rumor is that Ferrari will have a new chasis crash tested and possibly ready for Oz :confused:

[N4D13]

Ferrari car fix means new crash test | Forumula1.com | F1 News | Formula 1 Forums | Formula One Discussion (http://www.forumula1.com/2012/f1/f1-news/ferrari-car-fix-means-new-crash-test-report/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Forumula1-News+%28Forumula1.net+-+F1+News%29)
The rumor is that Ferrari will have a new chasis crash tested and possibly ready for Oz :confused:
Is there any other source? Rumours aren't something you'd put your money on...

[Tazio]

Is there any other source? Rumours aren't something you'd put your money on...
Just a report from La Gazzetta dello Sport, which is not the best resourse.

[Garry Walker]

Just a report from La Gazzetta dello Sport, which is not the best resourse.

I thought they are pretty reliable when it comes to Ferrari stuff?

[Garry Walker]

They do write a load of tripe most of the time and I do get the impression they are the Italian equivilent of our 'Sun' newspaper, but I wouldn't be surprised if Ferrari have a close relationship with them lol. Judging by some of Ferrari's own press releases in recent years, I swear Luca writes for them. :p

From what I know, they have some pretty good connections within Ferrari. At least in the past they have often been right before others.

[truefan72]

Nice from Eurosport

Compare the Cars | Formula 1 - Yahoo! Eurosport UK (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/formula-1/compare-cars.html)