Formula 1 Technology offers an in-depth look at the engineering, design and production of Formula 1 cars. It focuses on the most technically challenging years, showing how the technology and engineering have evolved from mechanical systems, most of which one could hold in the hand, look at closely, and see how they should work, to systems dominated by silicon wafers so small one can hardly see them.

Author Peter Wright identifies and outlines five parameters -- Power, Weight, Tire Grip, Drag and Lift -- and shows how each can be maximized. In addition, he describes the variety of technologies (including those that have been banned over the years) that are involved, not just in the makeup of the Formula 1 cars, but also in the component manufacturing, systems testing, and the actual racing of the cars.

From the Introduction
"Until the 1950s, Grand Prix cars were configured similarly to road cars. In the 1960s, 70s and 80s, a series of inventions and technological advances transformed Formula 1 cars such that the average motorist would have trouble identifying many of the components and probably be unable to drive the cars, even if he could stand the physical forces it imposed. Their performance has increased greatly, and would have done so even more but for regulatory restrictions on both the type and quantity of the technologies permitted. This book sets out to examine what, how and why this happened during this period." About the Author Peter Wright has been involved with Formula 1 for 35 years. He has worked directly for Formula 1 teams, and has also worked on relevant technologies, including aerodynamics, composites and closed-loop control systems. He has seen first-hand the most technically stimulating and challenging period, and has seen the industry grow in size and sophistication.