The Steering Wheel:
The $50,000 Computer
It controls everything from the differential to the drinks bottle. A modern F1 steering wheel is a complex interface for the car's systems.
The Display
In the center is a bright LCD screen (PCU-8D) that gives the driver critical information.
Why Is an F1 Steering Wheel So Expensive?
A single steering wheel costs around $50,000 to $100,000.
This is because it is not just a wheel; it is a military-grade computer made of carbon fibre, titanium, and gold connectors. It takes 80 hours to build by hand. The screen alone is a custom-built, high-brightness LCD that must survive 5G vibrations and rain.
Do Drivers Design Their Own Wheels?
Yes. While the electronics are standard, the physical grip (the rubber handles) is molded to the driver's hands. Drivers also choose exactly where they want specific buttons. Lewis Hamilton, for example, has a unique layout compared to his teammate.
Key Buttons & Switches
There are over 20 buttons and rotaries. Here are the most important ones:
Activates Manual Override for extra power.
Limits speed to 80 km/h for the pit lane.
Push-to-talk to the race engineer.
Disengages the gearbox (used when stopping).
Pumps fluid into the driver's mouth.
Shifts braking balance front or rear.
Rotary Dials
At the bottom of the wheel are rotary dials (thumb wheels). These control complex engine modes.
- STRAT Mode: Controls the engine power map (e.g., Strat 1 for Quali, Strat 5 for Race).
- Diff Entry/Mid/Exit: Adjusts the differential (how much the rear wheels lock together) for different parts of the corner.