Here’s the most talked about aspect of the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta. Ferrari call it the ‘aero bridge’ and it’s supposed to be a device that integrates the best of Ferrari’s learning in the windtunnel while working on F1 cars. A lot of designers we’ve talked to have questioned how this system actually works, suggesting that they (and their engineers) can’t work out how this won’t generate lift. Yet earlier, when we spoke with Flavio Manzoni, he seemed more than confident about the device’s value, calmly quoting facts and figures about it, that made us suspect that it really could work. Here’s a picture from above, below and the side. What do you think?
Posted by Joe Simpson
I’m not an aerodynamicist, but Ferrari does have a recent history of slightly dubious-sounding aero aids. Remember the flying buttresses of the 599? The brake fairings on the GTO? Or the flexible vanes on the front air intakes of the 458 Italia? Has anyone outside Maranello proven that they actually work?
Do remember, however, that alongside McLaren, Ferrari is one of the only front-running F1 teams that could afford to incorporate their most advanced aerodynamic know-how into their road cars, so they could know better.
Ferrari’s designers have built a venturi. Airlfow through it will be faster than above it, reducing pressure. Normal air pressure above the bridge, reduced air pressure through the bridge equals downforce.
Honestly, who cares???