F1 returns on Sunday!

Formula 1 is back on our screens this weekend, with practices starting on Thursday.  The 2011 season is set to kick off in Melbourne, originally intended to start in Bahrain on 13 March but was cancelled due to the Middle Eastern pro-democratic protests.

2011 looks set to be one of the most exciting seasons we’ve ever had, with five F1 champions all ready and eager to snatch the 2011 title for themselves. And to add to the unpredictability, the cars will come with some changes as well.

Tires
This is probably the biggest change this season, Bridgestone is gone and Pirelli is now in.  The major difference here is that the Pirellis will wear out quicker than the Bridgestones, with drivers expected to make at least three pit stops per race.

Return of KERS
The Kinetic Energy Recovery System makes a return to F1 cars after first appearing in 2009, but scrapped for 2010.  It works like an electric motor, giving boost to the engine when needed.  One of the reasons for abandoning the system was the extra weight it carried, about 30kg extra.   Teams with a smaller budget might be at a disadvantage though, not being able to afford the KERS system might mean that they could lose precious tenths of a second in a race.

Adjustable rear wing
This season drivers will be able to alter the angle of their rear wing from within the cockpit.  The aim is to increase overtaking opportunities on the straights, however the system will only work when the car is at least a second behind another, and shuts off when the car is under braking.

Sunday at 5 PM Australian time, don’t miss it.

Alex Kisiri

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