Pirelli begins 2017 test program

Once again, F1 has decided to change everything in 2017. After the engine regulation change in 2014, it is now the visual aspect that will be shaken up next season. In addition to a completely revamped aerodynamics, it has also been decided to have much wider tires in order to increase grip and thus achieve much faster lap times than today.

But to be ready to face such a level of performance, Pirelli is obliged to conduct real tests on cars as close as possible to their 2017 configuration. It is such a test that began today at the Ferrari-owned Fiorano circuit.

In order not to favor a particular team, it has been decided to conduct these developments with single-seaters provided by Ferrari, Mercedes, and Red Bull, which will be spread between today and November 29. To evaluate different types of circuits, they will take place at Fiorano, Mugello, but also at Paul Ricard, Barcelona, and Abu Dhabi. Thus, the three teams will stay two more days on the Middle Eastern circuit right after the end of the season to conduct the final validation test so that Pirelli can refine its settings over the winter and be ready for the first winter tests with the definitive cars.

Nevertheless, although the tires will be 25% wider than they are today, Pirelli lost its battle to have wheel widths also increased from current sizes. Thus, 13-inch wheels will be retained, even though they have now disappeared from commercial sales for consumer ranges, which mechanically reduces the return on investment the manufacturer can gain from its presence in the sport.

With the participation of www.racingbusiness.fr