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FIA concludes investigation into Bahrain GP software glitch
The FIA has concluded a review of the software glitch that delayed the start of the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, and has plans in place for further improvements.
Wet weather led to two formation laps being planned behind the Safety Car, but a number of cars then slowed or even stopped, leading to the race start procedure being suspended. The FIA identified the root cause as a weakness in the software, and implemented updated power unit software configurations within five minutes of the issue surfacing. The same fix will be used if required at this weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix.
“The review concluded that some cars running on low engine RPM in certain circuit sectors where a 250kW power reduction was applied experienced a loss of power beyond the original intent and that could not be recovered in those sectors,” the FIA findings read.
“As a result, the configuration established for the Sepang event will be reinstated for the Singapore Grand Prix should similar weather conditions be expected. Additionally, a further update to the wet weather software will be released for the United States Grand Prix on October 25.”
The FIA explained that the problematic software had been tested during FP1 at both the Belgian and Dutch races this year before it was implemented, but the report states more testing opportunities need to be identified in future.
“The FIA, together with the teams and Power Unit Manufacturers (PUMs), will continue to strengthen power unit software testing and verification capabilities, enhancing the overall validation process through independent assessment and collaborative feedback, including input from the supplier of the standardized Electronics Control Unit (ECU)," the report continued.
As part of the report, the FIA thanked the teams, PUMs and technical staff for resolving the issue under pressure in Malaysia, where the race was able to resume 48 minutes after it was initially suspended once the software updated was implemented.
Presented by:
Chris Medland
While studying Sports Journalism at the University of Central Lancashire, Chris managed to talk his way into working at the British Grand Prix in 2008 and was retained for three years before joining ESPN F1 as Assistant Editor. After three further years at ESPN, a spell as F1 Editor at Crash Media Group was followed by the major task of launching F1i.com’s English-language website and running it as Editor. Present at every race since the start of 2014, he has continued building his freelance portfolio, working with international titles. As well as writing for RACER, his broadcast work includes television appearances on F1 TV and as a presenter and reporter on North America's live radio coverage on SiriusXM.
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