We were once again fortunate enough to be invited by Shell to their first ever Innovation Open House held in Australia. The presentations and activities focused on partnerships and innovation, as well as speeches from eminent scientists and corporate figures (the global Chairman of Royal Dutch Shell was there, as well as the Chief Scientist of Australia and the Minister for Industry).
The day also included scientific demonstrations as well as discussions about the future of fuels technology and Shell’s new Floating LNG mining operations in the Prelude and Concerto gas fields off the coast of Western Australia.
The highlight of the day however, was the 2011 Ferrari F150 F1 car, sitting on a display outside the National Library.
Mike Evans, Shell F1 Fuel Development Scientist, in charge of F1 fuels was kind enough to chat to us briefly.
The details on this car are just exquisite. Check out the SOLID (!) all-carbon suspension arms and brake ducts on the front…
…and the rear.
OZ Racing must be proud.
ALL OF THE BUTTONS!! Anyone know what the functions are?
Some surreal stats on the CURRENT F138 car and motor: 2398cc 32 valve 90 degree V8, 98mm piston bore, revving to 18,000rpm, making about 740hp. The whole engine package weighs less than 98kg, while the ENTIRE CAR weighs 642kg. Holy shit.
As many of you will know, major regulations are changing for the 2014 season. Probably the biggest change is that 1.6L turbo V6 motors are replacing the current 2.4L V8. Drivers will be limited to 5 engines per season, which is significantly less than days past.
Interesting times ahead!
