F1 + LMP-1 Cars

[Jahee]

Why do F1 cars have tread on their tires, when all other race cars have slicks, i can only imagine it has something to do with the G's they encounter in corners, somehow it provides extra grip, but how?

Also, in LMP-1 (maybe LMP-2 also) cars, i've noticed there are vents or slats above the wheel arches, as seen here. Anyone got any idea as to what they do?

 

[drnickriviera]

"In fact there is a tread pattern of sorts on modern F1 tyres that was introduced as a safety measure from the 1998 season onwards. Four longitudinal grooves, each of 2.5mm depth, are cut into the tyres to reduce the area in contact with the road. This measure was introduced by the governing body of F1, the FIA, in order to artificially reduce the ever-increasing speeds of the cars to a safe level. Before 1998, dry weather tyres truly were "slicks" and had no tread pattern - simply a plain rubber surface."

I believe the vents in the LMP cars are to relieve air pressure in the wheel well.

 

[Jahee]

Originally posted by: drnickriviera
"In fact there is a tread pattern of sorts on modern F1 tyres that was introduced as a safety measure from the 1998 season onwards. Four longitudinal grooves, each of 2.5mm depth, are cut into the tyres to reduce the area in contact with the road. This measure was introduced by the governing body of F1, the FIA, in order to artificially reduce the ever-increasing speeds of the cars to a safe level. Before 1998, dry weather tyres truly were "slicks" and had no tread pattern - simply a plain rubber surface."

Ah right, that makes sense. Thanks

I believe the vents in the LMP cars are to relieve air pressure in the wheel well.

Presumably pressure built up from the air directed to the brakes from the cooling ducts?

 

[Demon-Xanth]

The vents in LMP cars vent the higher pressure allowing for some downforce to be had. The pressure comes from air entering from the wheel opening and from the wheel's profile itself. If you look at some open wheel cars you can see a "step" infront of the rear tires, that platform allows the high pressure caused by the wheel to be applied to the car rather than simply causing drag.