(photo: WRI2)

The double diffuser of the McLaren is quite spectacular. This well sculpted piece of art creates the suction -- the low air pressure -- that “sucks” the floor of the car to the tarmac, allowing it to run faster in the corners.

(photo: WRI2)

It is not uncommon that Formula 1 teams use some older technology. As seen here, green fluorescent paint trick allows to visually trace airflow at the bottom section of the sidepod. The aim is to get a nice, smooth, uninterrupted stream of air.

If there are traces of the paint pooling or building up anywhere then it shows a break in this smooth flow of air. On the other hand it also identifies points where the airflow is leaving the surface of the car, both of which indicate an aero problem. Seen here is the McLaren driven by reserve driver Gary Paffett during the first tests at Valencia, Spain.

On a final note, it was reported on Thursday that some rival teams believe that some of the air flowing into the airbox of the McLaren is being channeled not only the engine, but also to the rear of the car for aerodynamic purposes.





Photo Credit : WRI2