Jan. 15 - Panasonic Toyota Racing officially began the 2009 Formula 1 season with the world premiere of the team's latest car, the TF109. The team's eighth season in Formula 1 sees major rule changes so the TF109 looks considerably different to its predecessor, featuring wider frontwings and narrower rear wings among other modifications.
Today's world premiere completed an exhaustive development process which began in October 2007, when the 2009 regulations were confirmed.
The new chassis regulations are motivated by three factors: to make overtaking easier; to limit the continual increase in average speeds and to make the cars' appearance cleaner. The visual differences are significant, particularly the front and rear wings. At 1800mm, front wings are wider and 75mm lower while rear wings are 75% narrower at 750mm. As well as reducing downforce and speeds, these changes aim to increase a driver's chance to overtake the car in front.
It was not only the chassis department that had to adapt to new regulations, with significant modifications in engine rules for 2009 as well. Engine life has been extended from two to at least three Grand Prix weekends, excluding Friday practice, incorporating a limit of eight engines per driver during the racing season.
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