Formula 3: The Dallara for the new era
BIGGER AND FASTER In the run-up to the Abu Dhabi GP, the FIA has unveiled the new Formula 3 race car: the 2019 Dallara F3. Ten teams are fielding three cars each, including Jenzer Motorsport. It is not yet known where Fabio Scherer will drive. This weekend, the GP3 Series, which has been in existence since 2010, will start its final two [...]
This weekend, the GP3 Series, which has existed since 2010, starts its last two races in Abu Dhabi. From 2019, the new FIA Formula 3 will take its place. The races will continue to be held only as part of Formula 1's supporting program.
On Thursday before the last Grand Prix of 2018, the FIA unveiled the successor model. The 2019 F3, developed and built by Dallara, is said to be the best compromise between the previous GP3 and Formula 3 race cars. The carbon monocoque with halo cockpit protection meets the latest FIA safety standard.
Compromise solutions
The engine and transmission for the 2019 Dallara F3 are taken from the GP3 car. So the 3.4-liter V6 from Mecachrome, which delivers around 380 hp at 8000 rpm, and the Hewland 6-speed transmission with electrohydraulically actuated paddle shifters. The 2019 F3 is said to enable a top speed of around 300 km/h.
The technology is a compromise between performance and cost efficiency, according to the FIA. The aerodynamics are designed to simplify overtaking. As in Formula 1 and Formula 2, Pirelli is the series supplier.
Off to the DTM supporting program
The current Formula 3 race cars with naturally aspirated two-liter engines can still be used in regional and international championships without FIA predicate. One is the Formula 3 series as part of the 2019 DTM. The 2019 F3 technical regulations are valid until 2021.
Ten teams have been selected by the FIA as participants in the 2019 FIA Formula 3 Championship, including Jenzer Motorsport from Lyss. The teams will receive the first car in mid-January, the second and third in the course of February. After that, the official test drives will begin.
Fabio Scherer has been announced as the first Swiss driver in F3 2019. Following the GP Abu Dhabi, the Lucerne native will test with a GP3 car from the Yas Marina Circuit. Scherer cannot yet reveal which team he has chosen.
