Ferrari’s Pursuit of Perfection: Exploring New Front Suspension Concept
Ferrari’s push for title glory is intensifying, with the Italian team considering a significant design overhaul for its 2025 car. One radical change being explored is the adoption of a pull-rod front suspension concept, a design already utilized by world champion Red Bull to great success.
The Maranello-based team has made notable progress this year with its SF-24, clinching race wins and maintaining a strong three-way battle with Red Bull and McLaren for championship honors. However, as teams approach the limit of the current rules set, finding performance gains is becoming increasingly difficult.
Ferrari’s recent major development package, introduced at the Imola Grand Prix, delivered tangible improvements. The next aero package is scheduled for the British GP, with additional rear wings planned for Canada and Spain-specific circuits.
“What you have to keep in mind is that you have a kind of convergence of performance, and the development rate is much lower than it was two years ago.” – Fred Vasseur
Work has already begun on next year’s challenger, with Vasseur revealing that three projects are currently underway. Ferrari’s designers are reportedly exploring key aspects that could lead to significant gains in the 2025 car, which would help bridge the gap with Red Bull and McLaren.
A potential switch to pull-rod front suspension is an area of particular interest. This design has proven to have aerodynamic advantages, improving airflow around the front of the car and critically for the venturi tunnels underneath. Red Bull and McLaren already employ this configuration, showcasing its benefits.
Implementing such a change would require an all-new chassis, involving:
- New attachments to the suspension arms
- Movement of internal mechanisms
It could also open the door for adjustments to the driver position, potentially enhancing weight distribution.
Ferrari’s pursuit of Adrian Newey, the renowned technical guru, to join their ranks for the 2026 car project is ongoing. Newey’s input would undoubtedly be valuable in Ferrari’s quest for success.
Currently, Ferrari is the only team running a pull-rod rear suspension, with Haas, its customer team, also utilizing the same parts. While Ferrari technical director Enrico Cardile believes there are no significant gains from adopting the push-rod concept used by other teams, the squad remains committed to finding performance advantages wherever possible.
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