Lewis Hamilton has pushed back on the FIA’s initiative to add air conditioning to F1’s current cars in a bid to relieve drivers of the physical ordeal caused by high temperatures at certain venues.
The governing body’s investigation into how to alleviate the physical effects on drivers of extreme heat was prompted by last year’s Qatar Grand Prix, where the extremely hot and humid conditions in which the race took place led to the near collapse of several drivers after the event.
Williams charger Logan Sargeant didn’t make it to the checkered flag, the young American retiring with 17 laps to go due to a heatstroke, while Alpine’s Esteban Ocon was sick in his helmet.
According to a report from Motorsport.com, the FIA is set to trial an AC device that would help drivers resist extreme heat and grueling conditions such as those that often prevail in Qatar or Singapore.
The device will undergo its first trial on a single car during practice at the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, with additional tests are planned for subsequent races.
“In response to the extreme temperatures experienced at last year’s Qatar GP, the FIA and all F1 teams immediately initiated research to improve the venting and cooling of drivers in such conditions,” stated the FIA.
“Since then, the technical regulations have been updated to allow the introduction of a passive scoop on top of the cockpit for enhanced ventilation, which teams are strongly encouraged to use.
“These joint research activities have advanced and focused on the development of an active cooling system which would be installed in F1 cars when facing extreme conditions.
“Initial tests and in-situ proof of concept are planned to take place in Zandvoort and upcoming races.”
If successful, the FIA plans to open-source the design. This would allow companies to build their own versions, which F1 teams would then be required to purchase and install on their cars, but only when track temperatures exceed a yet-to-be-determined threshold.
Amid last weekend’s blistering conditions in Hungary, Hamilton was asked after the race about the FIA’s idea. It was news to the Mercedes driver who appeared resolutely against the use of AC in F1.
“Well, firstly, I didn't know that,” he said. “And it's not needed.
“This is Formula 1. It's always been like this. It's tough in these conditions.
“We're highly-paid athletes. And you've got to train your arse off to make sure you can withstand the heat, ultimately.
“It's tough. It's not easy, especially when you go to places like Qatar and Singapore. But I don't think we need an AC unit in the car.”
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