A tire change is among the most delicate phases of a race, the place essential tenths of a second could be gained or misplaced, considerably impacting the outcome. For that reason, all staff members should adhere to strict procedures. Right here is an evaluation of the actions drivers take throughout a pit cease, noticed by an onboard of Charles Leclerc.
Coming into the pit lane
A few corners earlier than coming into the pit lane through the in-lap, Charles Leclerc’s race engineer asks, “Flap replace when you’ll be able to.” This refers to adjusting the entrance wing flaps through the pit cease to tweak the automotive’s aerodynamic steadiness, addressing points like understeer or oversteer. Generally this adjustment is recommended by the staff in response to altering circumstances or the grip of latest tires, however usually it’s the motive force who decides based mostly on their really feel for the automotive.
Charles Leclerc responds, “Okay!” indicating no changes are wanted, and the pit wall proceeds with the decision: “Copy. Field now, field.”
Approaching the pit lane entry, Leclerc confirms the decision each verbally, repeating “Field” on the radio, and by urgent the “Pit affirm” button on the steering wheel. This process ensures there aren’t any errors brought on by miscommunication.
Upon reaching the road marking the beginning of the 80 km/h (or 60 km/h at some circuits) velocity restrict within the pit lane, Leclerc slows down and presses the “Pit limiter” button. This ensures that, even with most acceleration, he gained’t exceed the restrict. The LEDs on the steering wheel, sometimes displaying engine RPMs, swap to show velocity, lighting up from the sides towards the middle because the restrict is reached.
Throughout the pit cease
Upon arriving at his staff’s pit field, Charles Leclerc shifts all the way down to first gear and engages the clutch lever. It’s essential to cease the automotive within the precise place to keep away from forcing mechanics to regulate, dropping beneficial time.
Whereas the tires are being modified, it’s important for the motive force to maintain the brake pedal pressed to stop the rear wheels from rotating, which might disrupt and even endanger the mechanics. On the similar time, Leclerc begins to softly apply the throttle to be able to launch as quickly because the inexperienced mild is given. This permits him to launch the clutch and speed up instantly, avoiding anti-stall.
The sign for the motive force to go is given by way of a visitors mild system with two indicators: purple and inexperienced. The purple mild instructs the motive force to maintain the brake and clutch engaged, whereas the inexperienced mild alerts that they will launch each and drive off. The inexperienced mild prompts solely after all of the mechanics have confirmed their process is full by urgent a button on their wheel gun.
Exiting the pit lane
After launching, Charles Leclerc shifts into second gear. On pit lanes with an 80 km/h restrict, all drivers use second gear, whereas on these with a 60 km/h restrict, most favor first gear for higher acceleration.
Upon reaching the road marking the top of the velocity restrict, Charles Leclerc prepares to press the “Pit limiter” button once more to disable the limiter and rejoin the race.
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