Learn module

Aero

How airflow over and under the car generates downforce, reduces drag, and shapes the racing line.

Step 2of 6· Aero

Inline 3D model

Inspect while you read

Booting model viewer

McLaren MCL39Look at the sidepod undercut and floor edges as you orbit.Drag to rotate · scroll to zoom

Core concepts

Downforce lets F1 cars corner at speeds that would be impossible with tyre grip alone. At high speed, an F1 car produces enough downforce to drive upside down.
The front wing initiates the airflow — it directs clean air around the tires and shapes the flow that reaches the floor and rear wing.
The floor and diffuser work as a venturi: the converging channel accelerates air underneath, creating low pressure that sucks the car toward the track.
Dirty air behind the car disrupts following cars' aero — this is why overtaking is harder than leading.

Move straight from this module into the next surface without going back through the landing page.

Move straight from this module into the next surface without going back through the landing page.