In the March issue of Popular Science (out now), we explore the world of Formula 1 in detail. Here’s a sneak peek at part of what we dug up; the low down on the steering wheel
More basic functions on the steering wheel include paddles for shifting up and down through the gears as well as buttons for radio communications with the pits, an automatic drink bottle and a ?return to neutral? button. There is also an indicator that lets the driver know the best time to shift up or down.
Among the more complex functions, a driver can also adjust traction settings, fuel mixtures, front and rear brake bias and boost (thanks to the new Kinetic Energy Recovery System this year, which stores extra power).
The steering wheel also updates a driver on timing, competitor?s status and track updates. The later is important for safety reasons. If there is a problem on the track, the driver can find out where it is thanks to colour-coded lights that flash on the steering wheel.
A steering wheel can be removed from the car in seconds so that the driver can alight quickly in case of an accident. Each steering wheel can cost around $100,000.
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