P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 steering wheels: Why customised controls are vital to drivers
The evolution of F1 steering wheels has transformed significantly over the past 35 years, enhancing functionalities and providing a wealth of information to drivers and engineers for better decision-making. Each driver’s steering wheel is individually customized based on ergonomic preferences and operational needs, down to specific details such as clutch paddle layout. For instance, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz have differing preferences in clutch paddle designs on their steering wheels. These differences may appear subtle but can significantly impact how each driver interacts with and operates their vehicle. The adaptability of drivers, like Ollie Bearman using Sainz’s wheel in a race instead of Leclerc’s, showcases the importance of understanding and adjusting to different steering wheel layouts for optimal performance. Additionally, advancements continue as teams like Williams implement significant changes to their steering wheel designs to align with evolving technological requirements in Formula 1.
