Analysis - how exhaust blowing could return in 2016

Teams may currently run just a single exhaust pipe from their engines, with its location and dimensions - and those of bodywork around it - strictly controlled by the regulations in a bid to prevent engineers using exhaust gases for aerodynamic gain. That could, however, change in 2016...

The drawing above shows us two things: one, that Honda are set to retain their unique engine layout next season, with their small MGU-H positioned within the upper-rear portion of the engine block (left inset) between the compressor (in blue) and the turbo (in red); and two, that next season their power unit - and all others - will feature two exhausts rather than one (right inset).

This follows a change in the regulations for 2016 which requires all cars to have a separate exhaust wastegate tailpipe - it may even be a twin pipe - through which all and only wastegate exhaust gases must pass. This measure has been undertaken to increase the noise of the cars and will not have any significant effect on power or emissions.

What it could do, however, is open the door to the return of some exhaust-blowing effect into the car’s rear aerodynamic structures, since unlike with the current single exhaust pipe, there are no limitations on the positioning of the wastegate pipe.