Electric Innovations Drive Success of F1 Film
The F1 film has achieved remarkable initial success, grossing approximately $300 million globally within the first 10 days. This achievement comes from not only compelling storytelling but also advanced technological integrations, particularly in car design.
Key to this production was the collaboration with Mercedes, which assisted in developing a Dallara Formula 2 chassis tailored to resemble F1 cars for the fictional APXGP team. The car features a Mecachrome 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged engine. However, filming challenges arose, particularly with temperature management in the stop-start environment of movie production.
Action Vehicle Supervisor Graham Kelly noted, "They will overheat in a minute and a half… we were right on that limit." The sealed electronic control unit (ECU) limited the team’s modifications to just gear ratios, preventing access to engine mapping that could help manage heat. Kelly explained, “We were playing with temperature all the time,” emphasizing the complexities faced during filming.
To overcome overheating issues, the decision was made to create an electric version of the APXGP car. This electrified model features a 400-volt Helix motor directly connected to the gearbox, allowing for impressive performance—achieving speeds of 70 mph both forward and backward. “It really worked in every part of that process because the actors could wheelspin out with all the torque,” Kelly stated.
While viewers will see the roaring engines in the final cut, much of the dynamic action was captured using this silent, electric alternative. The film’s success underscores the blending of motorsport accuracy with cinematic innovation, paving the way for future projects in the industry.
