The FIA is about to introduce a new test for rear wing flexibility before the French Grand Prix after rising concerns that some teams were exploiting the current Formula 1 rules. In particular, questions over the design Red Bull used for their rear wings arose after the race in Barcelona. Back then, Lewis Hamilton suggested that the wings Red Bull used were bendy.

Formula 1 Rules Don’t Allow Flexible Wings That Can Boost Top Speed and Maximize Downforce

Hamilton’s inference was that Red Bull were exploiting the Formula 1 rules by having a flexible wing that rotates down on the straights, boosting the vehicle’s top speed, but then comes back up to a normal position to maximize downforce on the corners. Christian Horner, who is the team principal at Red Bull, stated that the wing design had been cleared by the FIA and passed the current pullback tests that are commonly used to test design rigidity. According to him, the cars were scrutinized thoroughly, and the stringent pull-back tests were passed, showing that the FIA were happy with the design.

The FIA Has Informed Formula 1 Teams That It Is Concerned About Wing Design Exploitation

Apparently, the FIA has written to all Formula 1 teams, informing them that the organization is concerned that teams could be exploiting wing designs that flex at high speeds, despite passing the static tests. The FIA adds that it is aware of current designs that comply with existing tests but exhibit excessive deflections while the vehicle is in motion. Apparently, the FIA is about to enact a clause in Formula 1’s technical regulations to bring about new tests.

The series of new tests that are about to be introduced focus on the characteristics of a wing that would rotate backward at high speed. The goal is to clamp down on those F1 teams that are trying to push the boundaries with clever designs that work in a manner that is currently not checked during tests that are carried out while the cars are stationary. This means that some teams will have to strengthen their rear wings to comply with the new tests.

All around the world right now, an immeasurable amount of hospitals are overwhelmed – especially in hard-hit regions. And one thing they are in dire need of is: ventilators. These devices are meant to help those who are badly affected by the virus and have difficulty breathing.

But big-time car manufacturers such as Ford and GM, who have recently had to stunt their car production, have joined forces to build ventilators instead.

They also plan to produce more protective gear for hospital staff, who are caring for the wellbeing of their patients. Tesla is looking for a way to contribute by building functional ventilators using car parts.

The Tesla Ventilator

The company didn’t go into great detail about which components they are using. However, there are a few easy guesses, such as the suspension reservoir tanks used to pump enough air for patients who have difficulties breathing on their own. It’s also believed that various valves and sensors from car production are coming in handy right now.

Model 3’s Infotainment Display

Tesla has built together with the ventilator the Model 3’s infotainment display associated with a computer and control units.

This device was created in order to help doctors see how the patient is doing, what are their breathing patterns, etc. This could help the medical staff immensely in order to follow their patient’s progress.

Is It Going To Be Available Soon?

The Tesla engineers mentioned that the model isn’t finished, and they are not sure when the company might start delivering these devices – but they know the need is urgent. Many automakers are joining forces and trying to find all the tools they may have to build ventilators and help medical device companies expand production.

Automobile Industry Facing Criticism

Automakers have been criticized for not having these devices ready on time to deploy as many deliveries as possible during a period when hospitals need it the most. Tesla is typically building their designs from scratch. But using existing components could speed up the production. For now, it’s unknown how long will it take for automakers to complete these models. Only time will tell.