F1 TEST CRASH: At Barcelona Ferrari and Hamilton Focus on OVERBOOST SETTINGS before…read more
Ferrari and Hamilton Focus on Overboost Settings Before Test Crash at Barcelona
Lewis Hamilton continued his integration process with Ferrari during testing at Barcelona, working closely with the team to optimize his handling of the SF-23 and manage the complex hybrid system. The seven-time world champion focused particularly on mastering Ferrari’s overboost settings before an unfortunate crash cut his session short.
During the test, Hamilton concentrated on refining his use of the car’s overboost, especially the K2 mode, which plays a critical role in how energy from the hybrid system is deployed. Overboost settings like K2 are crucial for maximizing performance, particularly in terms of power delivery during key moments in a race. Alongside K2, Hamilton also worked on managing the K1 and K1 Plus settings. These modes influence energy distribution, requiring precise driver input to adjust and improve strategies throughout a race weekend. Mastering these settings allows for better energy recovery and usage, vital in modern Formula 1 cars.
Ferrari is keen to help Hamilton adapt quickly to these hybrid systems, which differ from the setups he has previously used with Mercedes. The testing program was designed to give Hamilton ample time to familiarize himself with Ferrari’s approach to energy management. However, his learning curve was interrupted when Hamilton lost grip on the rear of the SF-23 during his final stint of the day, resulting in a crash in the third sector of the track. The incident occurred when Hamilton pushed hard through the sector, which proved challenging as he continued to adapt to the car’s handling characteristics under high-pressure conditions.
Though Hamilton’s collision with the barriers caused damage to the car, Ferrari downplayed the severity of the crash. A team spokesperson confirmed that Hamilton was uninjured and emphasized that the impact was not serious. However, the crash did bring an early end to Hamilton’s test session, forcing the team to adjust their plans.
“Lewis is fine,” the Ferrari spokesperson assured, adding, “The blow did not have any kind of consequences. He’s very sorry for two reasons. First, because his testing ended prematurely, and second, because he knows his session was shared with his teammate, meaning the only single-seater available in Barcelona was temporarily out of action.”
Ferrari’s reference to the shared single-seater hinted at the logistical challenges posed by the testing schedule, as both Hamilton and his teammate Charles Leclerc were scheduled to use the same car. With Hamilton’s session cut short due to the crash, Ferrari mechanics immediately sprang into action to repair the SF-23, making adjustments to ensure it would be ready for Leclerc’s scheduled run later in the day.
The crash caused some delays, as the mechanics needed to make several modifications to accommodate Leclerc. This involved not only repairing the damage from the crash but also adjusting the car’s seat, pedals, and overall setup to suit Leclerc’s driving preferences. Nevertheless, Ferrari remained optimistic that Leclerc would still be able to complete his test program, despite the time lost due to the crash.
Leclerc’s session was crucial, as Ferrari aimed to collect as much data as possible ahead of the upcoming season. With the SF-23 being the only car available for testing at Barcelona, the team had a tight schedule to ensure both drivers could familiarize themselves with the car and gather valuable insights.
Looking ahead, Ferrari also planned to rotate drivers on the final day of testing. Alongside Leclerc, Antonio Giovinazzi and Ferrari academy driver Dino Beganovic were set to take over driving duties. Both drivers would have the opportunity to contribute to Ferrari’s testing efforts, helping the team refine the car’s performance and work on other aspects of the car’s setup before the start of the season.
Despite the setback with Hamilton’s crash, Ferrari remained focused on making the most of the remaining test sessions. The team was committed to ensuring that both their drivers and development drivers had ample time on track, with the goal of refining their performance package ahead of the competitive season.
Hamilton’s crash served as a reminder of the challenges he faces in transitioning to Ferrari and adapting to a new car with different handling characteristics. However, with Ferrari’s support and ongoing work on key areas like overboost management, the seven-time champion is expected to continue progressing as he prepares for the upcoming season with his new team.
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