For a long time, we've known that Formula One cars and similar vehicles generate so much aerodynamic downforce that, in theory, they could be driven on a ceiling. Despite this, actually accomplishing it has been considered nearly impossible. However, the YouTube channel Driver61 believes it's doable.
Scott Mansell, the driver planning to execute this feat, has already sunk hundreds of thousands of dollars into the project. Yet, numerous hurdles remain before it becomes a reality.
The concept of driving a car upside down may seem far-fetched, but technically it's simple. The car just needs to produce more downforce than it weighs. For example, modern F1 cars weigh about 798 kg (1,760 lbs) and can generate nearly 4,000 kg (8,818 lbs) of downforce. Since an F1 car's downforce is about five times its weight, it could technically cling to a tunnel ceiling.
However, creating sufficient downforce is the easy part; almost every other aspect of this venture is extremely challenging, which is why an F1 car isn't the ideal vehicle for it.
From a practical standpoint, F1 cars need high speeds to generate downforce. This would require a very long and sturdy tunnel, which isn't realistic. As a result, Mansell opted for a different car: the Empire Wraith.
The Empire Wraith is an open-wheel racecar designed by Willem Toet, former head of aerodynamics for the Ferrari F1 team. Unlike F1 cars, the Wraith is better suited for steep, high-altitude hill climbs, making it a better fit for the project. After some modifications, Toet designed a body that produces over 622 kg (1,371 lbs) of downforce, which is more than double the car's weight of 311 kg (686 lbs).
Finding a suitable tunnel posed another issue for Mansell. Traditional tunnels aren't designed for this sort of endeavor, having harsh angles and lights. So, he's building a half-tunnel instead, to ensure smoother climbing onto the ceiling without disrupting the car's aerodynamics. This also makes the stunt easier to film and watch.
One remaining challenge is getting an engine to operate while upside down. Mansell aims to have the car inverted for five seconds, which poses problems for the vehicle's fluids. Although he hasn't disclosed his solution, an electric powertrain with a small battery could be an option.
To move this project forward, Mansell is seeking financial backers. Information on how to support him is included in the video description. We're excited to see how this ambitious project unfolds.
Source: Carscoops
