Formula 1 and the FIA, the governing body for world motorsport, have given permission for the use of ‘mule cars’ in testing to prepare for the 2026 technical regulations. The FIA World Motorsport Council has approved this decision, allowing for 10 days of running the ‘mule’ cars in 2024. The purpose of this is to allow the 10 Formula 1 teams to simulate how the 2026 cars might function. To create these ‘mule cars’, teams will be able to use chassis from the previous four seasons (2020-2023) and make the necessary modifications to resemble the 2026 cars.
The new rule implemented to allow the testing of ‘mule cars’ defines it as any track running time that is not part of a competition. Competitors entered in the championship, or third parties participating on their behalf, can use cars that were designed and constructed to comply with the technical regulations of the previous four calendar years. However, these cars must be modified to allow the appointed tyre supplier to test their future products or for the FIA to test components or systems for future championship seasons. The sale or availability of such cars to third parties is prohibited without prior authorization from the FIA. The modifications made to the cars must be minimal and limited to the purpose of testing development tyres or components/systems for the FIA.
The use of ‘mule cars’ is not uncommon in Formula 1, especially when significant changes in regulations are expected. In the past, teams have utilized ‘mule cars’ to gain a better understanding of upcoming regulations. For example, in 2008, teams ran ‘mule cars’ to familiarize themselves with the redefined 2009 aero regulations. McLaren used an interim 2009 aero package and KERS system to gain insights before the start of the 2009 season. Similarly, ahead of the 2017 season, teams adapted their existing designs by fitting larger wings to accommodate the increased emphasis on aerodynamic performance.
However, the 2026 regulations present challenges for teams to replicate with the current ‘mule cars’. The upcoming F1 machines will be narrower with a shorter wheelbase, and they will feature adaptive aerodynamics on both the front and rear wings. While teams will aim to replicate the wing shape and geometry with ‘mule cars’ to gain some understanding of the aerodynamic performance of the 2026 designs, it may not fully capture the complexity of the forthcoming cars.
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