Spa-Francorchamps Corner Analysis - McLaren 720S GT3 2019 (ACC)
February 9th, 2024
The speed chart analysis indicates that driverB is slower on corner exit due to a lower initial speed and a delayed throttle application, resulting in a later acceleration phase compared to driverA. This delay leads to a significant time loss as driverB exits the corner. To enhance performance, driverB should concentrate on applying the throttle earlier and maintaining higher minimum corner speeds. On the other hand, the throttle control chart reveals that driverA is cautious with throttle application, leading to a slower ramp-up to full throttle compared to the more aggressive and smoother approach of driverB. DriverA's hesitant throttle input suggests difficulty in managing traction or vehicle behavior during corner exit. For improved lap times, driverA needs to focus on applying the throttle earlier and more smoothly after the apex to increase exit speed onto straights. In summary, both drivers have areas for improvement: driverB needs to work on earlier acceleration out of corners, while driverA should aim for smoother and quicker transitions to full throttle. By addressing these issues, both drivers can potentially improve their overall lap times.
Analyzing the speed chart, it's evident that driverB is losing significant time on corner exit compared to driverA. At the start of the chart, driverB already trails with a lower speed, indicating a less optimal exit from the previous corner. This initial speed deficit carries through to the rest of the corner, as seen in the consistently lower speeds maintained by driverB throughout. The minimum speed for driverB occurs noticeably later than that of driverA, suggesting a delayed throttle application. This delay in getting back on the throttle means that driverB's acceleration phase starts later, leading to a compounded time loss as they exit the corner. The gradient of driverB's speed increase post-minimum speed is also less steep compared to driverA's, confirming a less effective acceleration phase. To improve lap times, focusing on earlier throttle application and maintaining higher minimum corner speeds will be crucial for driverB.
Analyzing the throttle control chart, it's evident that driverA and driverB have distinct differences in their throttle application. DriverA exhibits a delayed and gradual increase in throttle, which indicates a later and more cautious power application exiting the corner. This hesitation to apply full throttle can be seen as a significant ramp-up time compared to driverB, who applies the throttle much more aggressively and achieves full application sooner. This difference suggests that driverA is losing valuable time on corner exit due to this conservative approach. Furthermore, driverB's throttle application is not only earlier but also smoother, showing confidence and control over the vehicle's traction. The smooth curve of driverB's throttle input contrasts sharply with the jagged nature of driverA's graph line, which may imply difficulty managing wheelspin or an uncertainty in vehicle behavior at this critical phase of corner exit. To improve lap times, driverA should focus on earlier and smoother throttle application post-apex to maximize exit speed onto the following straight.
