F1 abandons LED wheel cover plan for 2024
In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of Formula 1 racing, there has been no shortage of innovations and advancements in technology over the years. One such innovation that has been considered for several years involves LED wheel covers that could display important information to fans in real-time during races.
As far back as the Abu Dhabi post-season test in 2021, McLaren was already experimenting with the LED system on its cars. The idea was to provide fans with a better understanding of what was happening on the track during sessions and races. Pirelli’s head of car racing and F1, Mario Isola, was particularly enthusiastic about the potential applications of the LED technology, describing the options as “limitless.”
However, despite the progress made in developing LED wheel covers, the latest meeting of the F1 Commission has decided to shelve the introduction of this technology. In fact, the revised technical regulations for 2024 now explicitly exclude LED systems from potential implementation.
One of the main concerns cited for this decision was the potential weight increase that these systems would cause in a sensitive area of the car. With F1’s recent shift from 13-inch to 18-inch wheels already creating a notable increase in mass, adding any additional weight is simply not practical at this time. With many teams struggling to meet the minimum weight limit, an extra few kilograms due to LED systems is not something they are willing to embrace.
It is a disappointing outcome for many fans who were excited about the potential of LED wheel covers in adding an extra layer of excitement to races. However, with the constantly changing landscape of F1 racing, it is entirely possible that we will see this technology implemented in the future once the weight concerns have been addressed.
For now, we will have to content ourselves with the innovations that are currently available in the sport. Nevertheless, the forward-thinking spirit of F1 racing means that we can look forward to more exciting developments in the near future.
