Formula NIPPON official website

The new chassis adopted in 2009

There has been a full renewal of the machine regulation for the 2009 Formula NIPPON Championship. The new machine used in this year's Formula NIPPON is the "FN09" specially developed according to a new regulation by America's Swift Engineering.
As with all the latest formula cars, the main monocoque shell is made of carbon composite with the engine mounted in the rear with a stressed mount system. It is a basic construction that is comparable to F1 machines in terms of safety and performance.

Outstanding aerodynamics

The new machine is distinctive by its exterior appearance. Mounted on the front end of the machine is a twin-wing device that is rare among the world's formula cars. The wing end plates and the upper and lower wings are connected by smoothly curved surfaces that create a unique futuristic look. This wing also performs a shock-absorbing function in the case of a collision for improved safety as well.
Another distinguishing feature of the FN09 besides its front wing is the structure called side ports on the sides of the machine. These ports house the engine radiator and other functions, and they also serve an aerodynamic function.

Characteristics that test the driver's skills

The side ports on the FN09 are positioned higher than on other formula cars. This creates a greater sense of volume to the machine that makes it especially impressive in action, but this design is not purely for appearance. It also function to direct airflow along the sides of the machines efficiently toward the rear in a way that effectively creates down-force that contributes to better handling stability.
Also, although it cannot normally be seen from the outside, the lower surface of the side port has a reverse wing shape that flares up toward the rear. This creates a rapid flow of air between the lower edge of the side port and the track surface when the machine is running and draws it out through the rear of the machine. This creates a suction force between the machine and the track surface and functions as down-force that contributes to handling stability. This kind of machine design that uses the shape of the lower surface of the side port to create downward suction when running is called a "venturi car" or "wing car." The venturi car design increases running performance so much that it is banned in F1, but thanks to a strong concern for safety in the FN09 design, it is a full-fledged and viable venturi car.

The battles are sure to intensify

The increased down-force has made it possible to increase the cornering stability of the FN09 and increases the possibilities for a driver to pass the machine in front. And this will surely lead to fierce battles on the track in races as the drivers push the limits of their driving technique.