Software for Building Race Car Engines

Technological advances have moved the process of designing race car engines away from the "trial and error" methods of the past. Modern software simulation programs let engineers study all aspects of an engine to best predict performance before a test production model is created.

  1. Function

    • Simulation programs take into account a range of parameters including air intake, exhaust and crankshaft alignment to determine how an engine will perform in real world conditions. This information is used to create a power curve, which can determine how fast an engine can propel a race car.

    Effects

    • The Virgin Racing team took the concept of computer simulation in its Formula 1 debut season of 2010. It became the first team to race in the series with a car that was completely designed, built and tested on the computer. This included all aspects of the engine along with the chassis and aerodynamics.

    Potential

    • Advanced telemetry allows teams to monitor race car engines for every aspect of performance. As of 2010, the McLaren Formula 1 team has 13 engineers at its main headquarters in Woking, England, who monitor engine information during races around the world and relay advice and news to team members in the garage.