Ferrari is getting a head start on the racing year and is starting things off with a bang by finally giving us a look at the new F2008. It’s number 54 of the single cock-pit car that the famous Italian manufacturer has launched since first becomming involved in motor-racing and it is codenamed 659 internally.
The major new features of Ferrari’s 2008 version F1 car are due to regulatory modficiations including the new Standard Electronic Control Unit (SECU) - an electronic system that all cars are obliged to use. Other areas affected by regulation changes are the gearbox, which must last four GPs, and safety elements regarding helmets.
Several driver aids, such as traction control and the electronically assisted starting system, have been removed. All these changes have resulted in a weight increase in the car, although this model will have changed significantly by the time the first Grand Prix of the season begins in March.