Launch Control

Raceace · 25 Apr 2001, 22:55 (Ref:85064)

I read the article 'Better qualifying expected from Benetton in Spain' from the F1.com website. It stated that some teams would be using Launch Control. Shouldn't this make the start of the GP more exciting? Hopefully we will see the Benetton's jumping up from the back of the grid at the start or something of that sort.

Gerard · 25 Apr 2001, 23:16 (Ref:85070)

I believe all teams will be using 'Launch Control' from the Spanish Grand Prix on.
It's called Traction Control and all that the drivers have to do at the start of the race is to push the button.
I don't think we will see anymore quick starts from Jacques Villeneuve and Jos Verstappen.
A start of a Grand Prix with Traction Control exciting?
I can't believe that will happen.

Minardi fan · 26 Apr 2001, 00:18 (Ref:85084)

A shame - we will miss out on the spectacle of a Jean Alesi grand prix start.

FormulaMag · 26 Apr 2001, 00:20 (Ref:85086)

Alesi has said that it would mean no one will better better starts, it'll all be the same.

"There will be no big difference in terms of driving technique. However, the feedback from the car will be extremely different," said Alesi. "The start of the race will lack of surprises, with no good or bad starts, since it will be managed by a programme. The traction control will diminish the direct effects of the driver's degree of pressure on the accelerator, with fewer chances for mistakes at the start."

quoted from formula-magazine.net

Valve Bounce · 26 Apr 2001, 00:53 (Ref:85106)

The solution is to ban on board computers.

DNQ · 26 Apr 2001, 06:03 (Ref:85180)

I am very sad to see traction control introduced. Just a question, now that auto gearboxes are legal, will any teams use them?

Valve Bounce · 26 Apr 2001, 07:28 (Ref:85187)

Quote:

Originally posted by DNQ
I am very sad to see traction control introduced. Just a question, now that auto gearboxes are legal, will any teams use them?

I don't see why not. If the gears are changed at precisely the right instant to maximise the drive from the torque curve the car would get maximum acceleration out of a corner using TRACS. Why bother the driver with details?? Let the computer (idiot box) do it

DancingMachine · 26 Apr 2001, 07:48 (Ref:85194)

who says we wont see exciting starts.i asked a few mechanics..the wheel spin is minimised by TC but it still can be there depending on the driver's control. and another thing is every1 isnt gonna change gear at the precise time..so starts will be exciting...

Valve Bounce · 26 Apr 2001, 10:22 (Ref:85228)

Quote:

Originally posted by DancingMachine
who says we wont see exciting starts.i asked a few mechanics..the wheel spin is minimised by TC but it still can be there depending on the driver's control. and another thing is every1 isnt gonna change gear at the precise time..so starts will be exciting...

Do you seriously think, no seriously, before you post stuff like this?

Liz · 26 Apr 2001, 12:02 (Ref:85247)

The machinery is controlled from the pits, from what I understand. Since the teams know exactly where their cars will line up on the grid, they just need to aim the sensor mounted on the front of the car at the right place and switch it on. When the lights go out, the car will start. All the pilot has to do is step on the gas and hang onto the wheel (and hope it doesn't come off in his hands). yes the cars will change gears precisely together. The race will be even more of a boring train than usual and we will be treated to the sight of Ferrari Ferrari McLaren McLaren for 90 minutes, unless an engine blows up or somebody falls asleep and goes off the track.

I think I'll tape it and then run it at fast forward. At least that would make it a race!

Speed · 26 Apr 2001, 13:19 (Ref:85275)

Quote:

Originally posted by DancingMachine
who says we wont see exciting starts.i asked a few mechanics..the wheel spin is minimised by TC but it still can be there depending on the driver's control. and another thing is every1 isnt gonna change gear at the precise time..so starts will be exciting...

I heard that too. VB, don't be so rude on the guy...

F1Rumors · 26 Apr 2001, 15:33 (Ref:85319)

Quote:

Originally posted by Gerard
I believe all teams will be using 'Launch Control' from the Spanish Grand Prix on.
It's called Traction Control and all that the drivers have to do at the start of the race is to push the button.
I don't think we will see anymore quick starts from Jacques Villeneuve and Jos Verstappen.

FYI - The likes of Jean Alesi, JV & JV are all given the option of an old fashioned start: no team yet has a perfect launch control, so it's considered a valid risk for anyone at the back of the grid to start themselves, as losing places costs nothing (really), but gaining any is good news...

Just my inside tuppence worth...

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