The Coronavirus epidemic has taken the world by a storm. However, the pioneers of engineering in the world of Formula1; probably the most intensive form of motorsport when it comes to technology have decided to manufacture medical devices including ventilators for the treatment of COVID-19 patients.
The seven UK-based teams include Aston Martin Red Bull Racing, BWT Racing Point F1 Team, Haas F1 Team, McLaren F1 Team, Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team, Renault DP World F1 Team, ROKiT Williams Racing. The project is termed as ‘Project Pitlane’ and is focusing on three workstreams following the decision of the UK government.
These workstreams vary in scope from reverse engineering existing medical devices, to support in scaling the production of existing ventilator designs as part of the VentilatorChallengeUK consortium, to the rapid design and prototype manufacture of a new device for certification and subsequent production.
In each instance, Project Pitlane will pool the resources and capabilities of its member teams to greatest effect, focusing on the core skills of the F1 industry: rapid design, prototype manufacture, test and skilled assembly. F1’s unique ability to rapidly respond to engineering and technological challenges allows the group to add value to the wider engineering industry’s response.
The focus of Project Pitlane will now be on coordinating and answering the clear challenges that have been set. The seven teams remain ready to support in other areas requiring rapid, innovative technology responses to the unique challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
We are glad that Formula1 is supporting the UK government for a greater cause. Meanwhile, racing is expected to resume after June 2020 this season.