The Physics Trick That Makes These New Cars So Fast

With the excess energy decreasing, the only way for the energy to add to zero is if the normal energy increases. This means that the force of friction is greater, so the new acceleration is greater.

Now instead of getting a maximum acceleration of 6 to 7 meters per second squared, you might get much higher values—perhaps 15 or 20 m/s2. The McMurtry Spéirling in the video went from 0 to 60 mph in … wait for it … 1.4 seconds. Just thinking about that will block your ears.

The idea of ​​fans is not new. In 1978, the Brabham BT46B used it to win the Formula 1 Swedish Grand Prix, but it was soon discontinued. The idea of ​​increasing the power of descent continues, however. F1 cars today drive airflow through the body in clever ways to achieve the same “ground effect”—which is justified by the fact that their purpose is to cool the engine.

Although these air flow systems help to cool the engine, everyone knows that the real purpose is to generate low pressure under the car to pull it closer to the road. In fact, the new McLaren W1 that we just reviewed is a street car that makes sales. (You can buy one for $2.6 million—or you could if you signed up early. McLaren only made 399.)

The cool part is that this super boost isn’t just about increasing your speed. It also allows the car to slow down and turn harder, as these are also forms of acceleration. Downward thrust can make a fast car a fast car—if that’s what you want. For me, I’m happy as long as it’s a red car and it’s moving.


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