Hybrid systems in high demand in Hungary

The Hungaroring route is often compared to a real turnstile. Narrow, winding, with an average speed of less than 200 km/h per lap, the Eastern European circuit will be a real challenge for the new hybrid systems on board the 2014 version single-seaters.

“The MGU-H and the MGU-K will be in enormous demand. Due to the many slow turns, the flexibility of the powertrain plays a vital role in establishing competitive times, explains Rémi Taffin, responsible for the French engine manufacturer’s track activities. The hard braking zones will provide opportunities to recover energy for the MGU-K. The second sector of the route, the most winding of the three, represents the best opportunity to harvest this energy since it is mainly composed of curves negotiated in third. The brief periods of acceleration which connect the turns will allow thermal energy to be recovered at the exhaust level. These phases will nevertheless prove to be particularly abrupt and will subject the internal components to extreme forces. We may therefore use a newer component than the others to improve the overall performance and reliability of the powertrain. »

If the thermal engine will not be used as much, the turbo on the other hand will clearly be called upon. “The track turns out to be quite slow and only 55% of the lap is covered at full load, compared to 65, even 70% for the last four meetings on the calendar. Therefore, raw power does not play a major role and the internal combustion engine will not be subjected to extreme stress during the race. Of all the races of the season, Hungary will be the one where the turbocharger will play the most decisive role. As the driver is constantly changing pace, having a turbo that responds instantly and delivers the right amount of power will significantly reduce lap times by providing greater driving flexibility. » says Taffin.

The first free practice sessions will begin on Friday morning, and can be followed from 10 a.m. live on AUTOhebdo.fr.