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During the 1993 Formula One season, the 3.5L Chrysler/Lamborghini V12 engine reached a performance level that was considered by some to be the second best engine in the sport. As the most technologically advanced naturally aspirated racing engine, the Formula 1 engine is typified by a very high power ratio (>200 BHP/litre), as well as a very wide dynamic operating range (2500-15,000 RPM). In addition, the engine must exhibit exceptional responsiveness to driver input or “driveability”. Finally, the engine must be both fuel efficient (as fuel capacity was limited by design) and durable over the qualifying/race distance. This paper will document the final year in competition for the Chrysler/Lamborghini F1 engine; focusing on both the collaboration between the Chrysler Technical Center (CTC) and Lamborghini Engineering SpA in Modena, Italy and the implementation of OEM passenger car engine control techniques to the world of F1 racing engines.

A Traction Control (TC) system was developed for a Formula 1 racing car using PID closed-loop feedback control of available engine power using a sophisticated fuel cutoff algorithm. Slip events were identified from 4 wheel speed data as well as driver cockpit-selectable input. This paper deals with both theoretical system design and algorithm development during the 1993 F1 season. In addition, development of a unique, G. P. start-only feature is discussed. Results indicate the existence of a minimum slip level, below which vehicle performance is impaired even though near-perfect slip reduction is achieved. Mathematical representation of the quantity of slip as a velocity delta is also important to ensure uniform system response in the face of changing track surface conditions.