Oscar Piastri, McLaren driver, has shared his concerns about the energy systems in Formula 1, especially during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend at Spa-Francorchamps. According to him, the computers that manage the engines can drastically affect the performance of the vehicles, leaving them with little control over their qualifying.
The Spa circuit, known for its demanding energy management, tested the drivers as they relied heavily on the internal combustion engine for the necessary power. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella explained that the new engines feature self-learning elements, designed to adjust energy management as laps progress. However, this technology is extremely sensitive to small variations in driver input, which can make a significant difference in overall performance.
Piastri experienced this issue firsthand, losing significant time compared to his teammate Lando Norris, even though both were using identical setups. The Australian driver has emphasized that this lack of control over the engines is not an isolated problem, as it affects several drivers on the current grid.
In addition, Piastri stated that he has been the only one affected on many occasions this year, sharing that he has spoken to other drivers who have faced similar situations. Using clear words, he said: ‘It’s a pretty poor way to compete knowing that the qualifying grids are decided by computers that either act or do not act as they should.’
Lando Norris agreed with this opinion, highlighting that the lack of driver control over the results of qualifying sessions has become an issue, especially on circuits like Spa where energy management is crucial. Despite performing well at the Belgian circuit, Norris acknowledged that he has struggled with similar issues throughout the season.
The immediate future does not offer quick solutions to this problem. Although future regulations foresee a change in the balance between combustion engines and electric energy, Piastri believes this won’t solve the specific issues related to engine calibration.
Nevertheless, both Piastri and Norris hope that over time manufacturers will better understand their engines, in order to minimize this problem that affects not only their team but the entire category.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
