Maranello, 8th January 2008
The F2008 is the fifty fourth single-seater built by Ferrari specifically to
take part in the Formula 1 World Championship. The design, codenamed
internally as the 659, represents the Scuderia's interpretation of the
regulations in force in 2008. A major new element of these is the
introduction of a new electronic system to be used by all teams, known as
SECU (Standard Electronic Control Unit) and produced by MES (McLaren
Electronic Systems.) It consists of a single control unit and a software
system, the development of which ends as the season begins. Other
areas affected by rule changes are: gearbox, which must be used for four
consecutive events; safety, with the introduction of higher side protection
around the driver's helmet; materials, with a limit to the type of
composites that can be used. As a result of these rules, there has been
an increase in the weight of the car. All aerodynamic surfaces have been
completely revised, however the current version will be replaced by a
completely different configuration in time for the first race. In fact, an
intensive and all encompassing development programme is planned to
run throughout the season. The monococque has been further cut away
under the driver's legs and the side pods and engine cover are more
tapered. The suspension system has been reworked and developed
around the new aerodynamics.
The wheelbase and weight distribution have been adapted to meet the
challenge of the new regulations and on the basis of lessons learned
last year in terms of the performance of the Bridgestone tyres. Changes
to the technical and sporting regulations in terms of electronics,
alongside the introduction of the SECU, have led to the removal of a host
of a driver aids, such as traction control and engine breaking and the
electronically assosted starting system, and also mean that
management of the differential, engine and gearchange are much
simpler. The gearbox casing is produced in carbon, while the
transmission continues to be mounted longitudinally. For the second
consecutive year the gearchange is fitted with a quick shift system,
adapted to the SECU software and further speeded up. In dealing with the
reliability aspect of the new regulations, Shell has played a key role in
defining the lubricants for the gearbox. The braking system has been
updated with new callipers and innovative concepts regarding cooling.
The 056 engine is mounted longitudinally and continues as a load
bearing element. Its basic structure remains unchanged compared to the
unit homologated at the start of last season, while its auxiliary systems,
air and fuel intakes have been further developed. The technical
regulations also call for the use of fuel corresponding to European Union
norms, with a content of components derived from biological sources
equal to 5.75%. As usual, during the design and development stages of
the entire car, our technical partners played an important role. Apart from
previously mentioned significant input from Shell , also worthy of note is
the contribution of the Fiat Research Centre, especially in providing
simulation systems and Brembo for its work in developing the braking
system. As is now traditional, a great deal of attention was paid to the
performance and optimising of the materials used at the design stage
and through quality control, striving to maximise performance levels while
attaining the highest possible safety standards.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Chassis
Carbon-fibre and honeycomb composite structure
Ferrari longitudinal gearbox Limited-slip differential
Semiautomatic sequential electronically controlled gearbox quick-shift
Number of gears: 7 + Reverse
Ventiled carbon-fibre disc brakes
Independent suspension, push-rod activated torsion springs front and
rear
Weight (with water, lubricant and driver): 605 kg
BBS Wheels (front and rear): 13''
Engine
Type: 056
Number of cylinders: 8
Cylinder block in cast aluminium: V 90°
Number of valves: 32 Pneumatic distribution
Total displacement: 2398 cm3
Piston bore: 98 mm
Weight: <95 kg
Magneti Marelli digital electronic injection
Magneti Marelli static electronic ignition
Fuel: Shell V-Power ULG 64
Lubrcant: Shell SL-1098
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