Sensitivity to mass variations of the fastest possible lap of a formula one car

The paper describes methods for setting up and solving theoretically the mi nimum time lap problem of contemporary Formula One cars. Emphasis is placed on computational efficiency and robustness of the calculations. The proble m is treated as one of non-linear programming. Car and circuit models are s et up and novel techniques are used to achieve effective optimisation in re asonable computer time. The vehicle representation includes seven degrees o f freedom and realistic aerodynamic and tyre force systems. Results relatin g to the influence of total car mass on the minimum time achievable on two current Formula One circuits are included, to illustrate the kind of inform ation which can be gained from the optimisation. Results concern the range 600-700kg, which spans the practically interesting circumstances. Results a re shown to be repeatable from different starting conditions, precise and i n general agreement with knowledge from testing.