Abstract

A fascinating behind the scenes glimpse into the secretive world of Formula 1 from the design and performance perspective. This high tech world is explained starting from the concept of the regulations and how they can be interpreted. New cars are designed every year and this process is explained using some of the challenges the engineering teams face. Business needs sometimes clash with engineering requirements thus hurting the performance of the vehicles created - and examples of this are explained. And of course no discussion of Formula 1 would be complete without discussing the importance and delightful complexities of aerodynamics as, and why, it is used as it is in F1. Some examples of specific famous aerodynamic tricks are explained in a way that non engineers can understand. One of the most captivating aspects of F1 is that a single individual can make a big positive difference but clashes and attitudes can also damage the performance of a team and some of this is explained.

About the speaker

Mr Willem Toet received his BSc degree from Latrobe University in 1974. In 1985, he started his F1 career with Benetton, helping them to win their first F1 Drivers’ Championship, just before moving to Ferrari as Head of Aerodynamics at the end of 1994. He later moved to BAR/Honda and BMW Sauber. He had a short break from Formula 1 as Managing Director of the RML Group, winning championships in touring and sports cars, before returning to Sauber F1 in 2011.

Mr Toet has also competed in motorsport, racing motorbikes and cars when he was young and has been an enthusiastic and entertaining speed hillclimber, winning events in the British Hillclimb Championship. Keen to share this lifetime of accumulated knowledge with the next generation, Mr Toet gave guest lectures in aerodynamics and related matters when his Swiss base and F1 work allow. He also gave advice to a number of sports organizations and has a few hobby projects on the side such as data logging on his mountain bike and designing a hillclimb car.

For attendees’ attention

		The lecture is free and open to all. Seating is on a first come, first served basis.
		Light refreshments will be served from 4:30 to 5:00 pm.

HKUST Jockey Club Institute for Advanced Study
Enquiries: ias@ust.hk / 2358 5912
http://ias.ust.hk