This has to be the quickest pit stop I've ever seen! It's by the Lotus F1 team at this year's Japanese Grand Prix, which was held at the Suzuka circuit last month.
OK, that's fast! I wonder if I can derive any lessons on writing books from that . . . ?
Peter
2.2 to 2.5 seconds is a good four tire stop in F-1 and in practice the teams have done the four tire stop in 1.9 seconds and some are saying they have done it in less than that.
ReplyDeleteIt was easier on the tire changers when re-fueling was allowed then they could take their time.
But the occasional pit fire(s) put a end to the refueling, the cost of the refueling gear and personnel was a factor too.
Without refueling such things can happen more quickly. Ditto when you have three guys per wheel... compare that to NASCAR where far fewer guys are allowed over the pit wall. Instead of three guys per wheel, you have one for the front and one for the back as well as five lugs per wheel (instead of one). At least they give them other guys to carry the old tires away. IndyCar gives one guy per wheel.
ReplyDeleteBut then, NASCAR and IndyCar have refueling going on at the same time... unless it's a quick top off it takes some time for the fuel to flow into the tank. Barring a miscue by a tire changer they end up waiting on the fuel and not the tires.
Compared to the US-centric series, F1 practically has a committee meeting around the car.
Whoa.
ReplyDeleteWipe the windows, check the oil dollar gas..https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5b2w_nJLuvw
Chuck Berry still rules