Ferrari has introduced a new technical upgrade aimed at reducing tyre degradation, focusing on the rear wheel rims. This development was first seen at the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix and represents a targeted effort to address tyre wear issues that have challenged the team.
The new rear wheel rims were developed in collaboration with wheel supplier BBS. The design replaces the traditional spoke layout with a circumferential ring, likely made from carbon fibre, attached around the outer edge of the rim face. This change is intended to improve the thermal behaviour of the tyres, which is a critical factor in managing tyre degradation during a race.
Tyre degradation has been a notable concern for Ferrari, and this upgrade forms part of their ongoing technical adaptations. By altering the rim design, the team aims to better control the heat distribution and reduce the rate at which tyres wear out, potentially helping their drivers maintain performance over longer stints.
The removal of the spokes in favour of a solid ring is a distinctive approach that differs from conventional wheel designs in Formula 1®. This modification is believed to influence the airflow and heat dissipation around the rear tyres, which can be a significant factor in how the rubber performs under race conditions.
While detailed data on the direct impact of this upgrade on race results or driver feedback has not been disclosed, the technical community credits the new rims with an improvement in tyre thermal degradation. This suggests that Ferrari’s development is addressing one of the key challenges they faced in managing tyre wear.
Ferrari’s drivers, including Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, have been involved in the ongoing evaluation of the car’s performance, though specific comments on the rims have not been reported. The upgrade highlights the continuous technical evolution teams undertake to optimize tyre performance within the regulations of Formula 1®.
This technical change at Barcelona reflects Ferrari’s focus on incremental improvements to maintain competitiveness. The new rear wheel rims form part of the broader technical package aimed at enhancing tyre durability, which remains a crucial aspect of race strategy and car performance in Formula 1®.
