The motorsport of Formula 1 has provided a platform for vehicle manufacturers to research and develop new technologies to help gain advantages over competitors. Some technologies that come out of Formula 1 eventually trickle down into consumer vehicles. Here are 5 technologies we use in everyday cars that have come from Formula 1.

Steering Wheel Controls

In the early 90’s Formula 1 cars started having steering wheels that have multiple buttons that control different features on a racing. Over time these steering wheels started to feature an illuminated screen to provide F1 drivers with information on lap times and gear information. In consumer vehicles, you can change media functions and dashboard information without having to leave the steering wheel.

Semi-Automatic Gearboxes

In a Formula 1 car, shifting in between gears will provide power and speed to the car. A manual gearbox can be slow in the world of speed and can be prone to human error. Semi-automatic gearboxes were introduced in Formula 1 to eliminate the possibility of error. Semi-automatic gearboxes allow drivers to shift in sequence, eliminating the possibility of shifting gears out of order.

Brake Discs

Formula 1 cars can reach a speed of more than 200mph down a straight but suddenly need to slow down for a corner. Brakes are necessary to achieve this sudden deceleration. When brakes stop a car, they generate a lot of friction and heat. The heat generated can reduce the stopping power of brakes. Brake discs can be vented for heat to be dissipated. Brake Disc technology continues to develop with racing teams now using brake discs made from carbon so they can be lighter but stronger.

New Materials

Weight is a major aspect of racing, the heavier the car the slower it will be. However, the car will also need to be strong enough to withstand the g-forces at the corners. One of the most high-tech materials used in Formula 1 is carbon fibre. These days Formula 1 cars are mostly made from carbon fibre. Its strong but lightweight properties help with fuel efficiency. The problem with carbon fibre is that it's really expensive to manufacture. The cheaper alternative is aluminium which has been used for years to construct the car body and engine block.

Safety

Given the extreme speeds and unlimited power in Formula 1 cars, Formula 1 is a dangerous sport with a history of drivers dying during races. Luckily over many years, the safety of drivers have been the priority for the sport. Formula 1 cars are built around a structure that protects the driver as well as roll cages in other car racing sports. Roll cages are hidden within a production car to keep its driver and passengers safe.

Another safety feature introduced by Formula 1 is the rearview mirror. In the early 90’s racing drivers discovered they could use mirrors to spot the competition approaching behind them. Ever since then the rearview mirror has been the safety tool for millions of drivers.

Summary

Formula 1 and other car racing sports provides a platform for car manufacturers to research and develop new technologies to enhance car technologies. Electric cars will soon be the go-to car in the future. Manufacturers will be researching and developing new technologies within the electric industry to ensure their car is way ahead of the competition and provides a fast but safe journey for their customers.