What's new for 2018

The 2018 season starts in less than two weeks and now testing has been completed, all attention is turned to the opening race.

But what is actually new this season? Read on to find out! 

I’m sure almost everyone is aware of this addition to the car covering the cockpit for driver safety. In the build up, fans have suggested that it has made the cars look like flip-flops whilst others are glad F1 is trying to protect drivers. 

The device weighs 7kg whilst the weight limit on the car has only increased by 5kg. 

Drivers are now limited to three power units per season down from four last year. 

They’re also limited to two MGU-K units and two energy stores. 

Any driver who requires to use an additional element will receive grid penalties. 

All fans will be well aware of how ridiculous the grid penalties have been for many teams in recent years but non more than for McLaren. 

Its often been the case that McLaren drivers have been penalised 20 or more places. 

But now, a penalty of 15 places or more, will result in the driver starting from the back. 

Tyres 

Pirelli have added the hyper-soft tyre, which will first feature in Monaco. The hyper-softs will have a pink strip down the side to indicate which tyre is in use. 

A super hard tyre has also been added. It will be a surprise to see this compound in use, but has been included as an insurance policy incase the other tyres fail. 

The French Grand Prix returns to the schedule for the first time since 2008. This will take place at Le Castellet’s Circuit Paul Richard. 

The Hockenheim circuit also returns. Malaysia will not be featured in this seasons calendar meaning the total amount of races is equal to 21. 

Grid Kids 

F1 followed suit with darts PDC by removing female models. 

The new grid kids will replace the grid girls aiming to aspire young racers to meet their heroes. 

All races will start at 10 minutes past the hour to ensure TV broadcasters don’t miss the start of the race and have space for a mini race build up. 

Grand Prix in Europe and Brazil will start one hour later than before. Those in Europe will also have qualifying and practise sessions pushed back one hour.