Piastri urges F1 to slash car weight to 600‑kg range
Summary
Oscar Piastri says F1 cars are too heavy and should target a 600‑kg weight, needing a 50‑kg cut. He argues only a simpler power unit and lighter batteries could make that happen.
Oscar Piastri says the 768 kg minimum weight is too high and urges the FIA to target a 600‑kg range – a cut of at least 50 kg. He notes high‑downforce packages keep the cars fun, but only a simpler power unit and lighter battery could deliver that reduction.
Why it matters:
- Extra mass strains brakes and tires in low‑speed corners.
- Heavier cars limit aero development and force larger radiators.
- A lighter chassis would free design space and boost strategic flexibility.
- Heavier cars increase tyre degradation, forcing more pit stops.
The details:
- Minimum weight for 2026 cars: 768 kg, 77 kg above the 2014 baseline.
- Piastri calls for a 600‑kg target – roughly a 50‑kg cut.
- Only a simpler engine, possibly without a heavy hybrid battery, can shed that weight.
- Drivers say rising weight hurts balance and low‑speed grip.
- The 2024 spec, despite its weight, delivered some of the best high‑speed cornering of the hybrid era.
What's next:
- FIA will review the minimum weight rule at the next technical briefing.
- Teams may explore hybrid‑lite power units or new lightweight materials to cut kilos.
- Piastri’s remarks pressure manufacturers to prioritise weight‑saving before the next regulation cycle.
Original Article :https://racingnews365.com/oscar-piastri-seeking-f1-action-to-slash-growing-probl...