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F1 Technique: Half-size tires for wind tunnel models (+video)

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Khatir Soltani
Every Formula 1 team performs extensive aerodynamic tests in wind tunnels when they design and develop their race cars. Let’s take a look here at the small-sized tires they use.

The following video was produced by the Caterham F1 team.

Since the Caterham model car is half the size of a normal race car, the tires it rolls on are also smaller by 50%. They are not karting tires, but rather specific tires manufactured by F1 tire supplier, Pirelli.

These half-size tires have the exact same shape as the real tires, which is crucial to collect accurate and reliable information about the levels of downforce and drag in the wind tunnel.



Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
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