With the ever-evolving world of motorsports, new regulations and hybrid technology have brought about a shift in the way teams approach racing. And according to former Formula One driver Karun Chandhok, this shift is putting more emphasis on engineering rather than star drivers.
In a recent interview, Chandhok shared his thoughts on the current state of motorsports and how the role of engineers has become crucial in setting the tone for success on the track.
Gone are the days when a talented driver alone could guarantee a win. With the introduction of new regulations and hybrid technology, the focus has shifted towards the engineering aspect of racing. And Chandhok, who has been a part of the motorsports world for over two decades, believes that this is a positive change.
In the past, drivers were the ones who made the headlines and were considered the stars of the sport. But with the advancements in technology, the role of engineers has become equally important. They are the ones who design and develop the cars, making them faster, more efficient and reliable. And with the new regulations, engineers have to constantly adapt and innovate to stay ahead of the competition.
Chandhok, who has raced in various motorsports categories including Formula One, Formula E and endurance racing, understands the importance of engineering in today’s racing world. He says, “The cars have become more complex with the introduction of hybrid technology. This has put a lot of pressure on the engineers to come up with innovative solutions to make the cars faster and more efficient.”
The introduction of hybrid technology has also brought about a change in the driving style of the drivers. They now have to manage the energy usage of the car, which requires a different approach compared to traditional racing. This is where the engineers play a crucial role in providing the drivers with the necessary tools and strategies to optimize their performance on the track.
Chandhok also believes that the new regulations have made the sport more challenging and exciting for both the engineers and the drivers. He says, “With the constant changes in regulations, the engineers have to constantly adapt and innovate. This keeps them on their toes and makes the sport more competitive and thrilling for the fans.”
The shift towards engineering has also opened up new opportunities for young engineers to enter the world of motorsports. With the demand for skilled engineers increasing, teams are now looking for fresh talent to join their ranks. This has created a new avenue for young engineers to showcase their skills and contribute to the success of a team.
Chandhok, who is also a commentator and analyst for various motorsports events, believes that this is a positive trend for the sport. He says, “It’s great to see young engineers getting the recognition they deserve. They are the ones who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make the cars perform at their best. And with the new regulations, their role has become even more crucial.”
The shift towards engineering has also brought about a change in the mindset of teams. They are now investing more in research and development to stay ahead of the competition. This has led to the development of new technologies and innovations that not only benefit the sport but also have real-world applications.
Chandhok believes that this is a step in the right direction for the sport. He says, “Motorsports has always been a platform for technological advancements. With the focus on engineering, we are not only pushing the boundaries of the sport but also contributing to the development of new technologies that can benefit society.”
In conclusion, the shift towards engineering in motorsports is a positive change that is setting the tone for success on the track. With the introduction of new regulations and hybrid technology, the role of engineers has become crucial in making the cars faster, more efficient and reliable. And as the sport continues to evolve, it is the engineers who will play a key role in shaping its future. So let’s embrace this change and look forward to more exciting and competitive races in the future.