 | |
| Category | Formula BMW |
|---|---|
| Constructor | Mygale/DesignworksUSA |
| Technical specifications | |
| Chassis | Carbon fiber/kevlarmonocoque,fiberglass composite bodywork |
| Length | 3,966–3,975 mm (156.1–156.5 in) |
| Width | 1,695–1,740 mm (66.7–68.5 in) |
| Height | 980 mm (39 in) |
| Axle track | 1,515 mm (59.6 in) (front) 1,456 mm (57.3 in) (rear) |
| Engine | BMW K1200RS 1.2 L (73 cu in)DOHCI4naturally aspiratedmid-mounted |
| Transmission | Hewland FTR-200 6-speedsequential |
| Power | 140 hp (100 kW) |
| Weight | 465 kg (1,025 lb) (without driver) 550 kg (1,210 lb) (with driver) |
| Tyres | Goodyear Firestone |
| Competition history | |
TheMygale FB02 is anopen-wheelformula race car, designed, developed and built French manufacturer and constructorMygale, in collaboration and partnership withDesignworksUSA, for the one-makeFormula BMW spec-series, between 1998 and 2013.[3]
Formula BMW was what is sometimes referred to as a "slicks and wings" formula, which describes the use ofslick tires anddownforce-generating wings at the front and rear. The addition of wings results in cornering speeds that are faster than that which is achieved by the winglessFormula Ford cars and comparable toFormula Renault, and provides drivers with valuable first-time experience of the unique characteristics of aerodynamic downforce.
Formula BMW was strictly a "control" formula. This term describes a formula in which every major aspect of equipment and suppliers is restricted. Control formulae normally have only one chassis specification, one engine, and single suppliers of tires and fuel. Modifications to the chassis, bodywork and engine are not permitted and this is strictly enforced throughscrutineering. In the case of Formula BMW, tuning is restricted to basic adjustment of thegear ratios,suspension,brake balance, and wing angles.[4][5] The engines are sealed to prevent illegal modifications and are serviced bySchnitzer Motorsport.[6]
DesignworksUSA, a subsidiary of BMW, led the design of the car in cooperation with the French chassis constructorMygale, which was responsible for production.[4] The result, designated "FB02", was a compact design, with acarbon-fibre composite tub constructed to the safety standards of theFédération Internationale de l'Automobile (motorsport's world governing body). The bodywork is made from akevlar composite.[7] At 3.975 m (13.041 ft) in length, it was larger than a Formula Ford 1600, and slightly smaller than a Formula Renault 2000.
The engine was sourced from BMW's motorcycle division: it is a near-standardK1200RS motorcycle engine, in aninline four-cylinder configuration, with a capacity of 1171 cc, and a power output of 140 hp (100 kW). Drive is through a single-plateclutch and a six-speedsequential gearbox, produced byHewland. The complete car weighs 455 kg without fuel and driver.[8]
