F1 Strengthens Wheel Rims to Tackle Loose Tyre Problems

Formula 1 has improved its wheels for the 2024 season as part of moves to improve safety and avoid problems with loose tyres. Official wheel manufacturer BBS responded to the FIA’s request by strengthening the rim without changing the wheel design.

Since the change to 18-inch wheels, which will become standard from 2022, BBS has focused on dealing with the extreme forces that larger rims experience in accidents, especially lateral forces. This exposure can cause damage and, in some cases, the tire coming off the wheel.

Incidents in recent years, such as last year’s Brazilian Grand Prix, when a loose tire on Alex Albon’s Williams hit Daniel Ricciardo after a collision, have highlighted the extent of the problem for (Daniel Ricciardo) Alfatauri.

At the request of the FIA, BBS developed an improved version of its rims, called the MK2, focusing on strengthening its product. The change was introduced slowly at the end of last season and was tested by several unspecified teams after the 2023 summer break.

Speaking of evolution, BBS says that the MK2 retains the same spoke shape as compared to the MK1. Although fatigue was not an issue in the original design, the outer shape of the rims has been reinforced to better handle side impacts. Weight increased slightly, but resistance to side effects more than doubled.

The company is also working on visual improvements to improve the rims’ paint performance. Although the MK1 and MK2 use the same coating engineering technology, BBS emphasizes that the new device helps improve coating quality efficiency.

The move is aimed not only at addressing safety concerns but also in anticipation of a more stable 2024 season, where all teams will benefit from improved rims. Through this measure, F1 demonstrates its ongoing commitment to driver safety and car integrity during races.