“On paper, the brand new automotive is superb.” That is how Ferrari staff principal Fréd Vasseur not too long ago described the 2025 automotive. After a 2024 season that was inconsistent however exceeded expectations (with the Scuderia preventing for the title till the ultimate race), the brand new automotive might want to persistently compete for pole positions and victories and, hopefully, contend for the world championship. To fulfill these expectations, subsequent yr’s automotive is progressing easily and is reportedly at a sophisticated stage of improvement, on schedule. Some parts are already in manufacturing, the chassis is alleged to have handed crash checks, and the ability unit is being examined on the bench to refine mappings, hybrid administration, and reliability in a yr of regulatory stability earlier than the 2026 revolution.
Only one% in widespread with the SF-24
As reported by some sources, the brand new automotive, identified internally as Challenge 677, will differ considerably from the SF-24 to beat the restrictions of its predecessor, whose improvement had almost plateaued, and to handle efficiency shortfalls. Among the many main variations between the designs is a brand new chassis, redesigned to reposition the motive force additional again and accommodate a brand new entrance suspension. Like previously, it will undertake a pull-rod structure, chosen not for mechanical advantages however for aerodynamic and weight distribution benefits. Moreover, a brand new, shorter, and slimmer gearbox housing will allow the engine to be repositioned additional again, altering the load distribution and permitting for a reconfiguration of the rear suspension mechanisms (retaining the pull-rod structure) to maximise traction and enhance tire administration.
Not every thing is being discarded…
The 2025 automotive may also retain some options of the SF-24, persevering with sure design philosophies from the previous. Among the many components more likely to be carried over, primarily based on each studies and logical assumptions, is the entrance wing idea (the ultimate 2024 spec proved extremely efficient). This consists of its attachment to the nostril, which stays rounded and connects to the second flap of the wing somewhat than the primary aircraft. This configuration, with a hollowed decrease portion of the nostril, directs a larger airflow beneath the automotive, enhancing downforce from the ground whereas decreasing drag. The entrance wing philosophy aimed toward producing an outwash impact—redirecting airflow outward from the entrance tires—may also be preserved. The automotive’s central part will function a triangular airbox, decreasing the automobile’s frontal space and drag whereas sustaining clear airflow to the rear. This design is made doable by progress in managing the air consumption required to energy and funky the engine.
Ferrari is thus making each effort to supply its two drivers with a aggressive automotive in 2025: for Lewis Hamilton to finish his profession on a excessive word and pursue an eighth title, and for Charles Leclerc to unleash his expertise and compete on equal phrases with Max Verstappen and Lando Norris. The Prancing Horse is set to be prepared to interrupt the championship drought that has lasted since 2008—a feat narrowly missed in 2024 resulting from positive margins.