Why Lewis Hamilton HATES the Simulator

Summary

The video script delves into the use of driving simulators by Formula 1 drivers, contrasting Lewis Hamilton's minimal engagement with the tool against Max Verstappen's extensive use. It explores the benefits of simulators in car development and driver training, while acknowledging the sensory limitations compared to real-world driving. Hamilton's perspective is highlighted, suggesting that while simulators are valuable for car tuning, they might not enhance his actual racing performance due to the lack of physical sensations like G-Force. The script also touches on the potential impact of simulator training on a driver's race strategy and setup preferences.

Takeaways

• 🏎️ Lewis Hamilton admits he barely uses the Mercedes simulator, unlike Max Verstappen who has a simulator in his motorhome and uses it extensively.
• 🌟 Simulators are beneficial for drivers as they help in learning circuits, racing lines, and in car development aligned with the driver's preferences.
• 🔧 Teams rely on simulators for making crucial decisions regarding car development, setup changes, and race strategy.
• 🎮 There are driver-in-the-loop simulators and computer simulations, with the former providing a more realistic driving experience.
• 🤔 Hamilton has reservations about simulators, believing that the differences between sim and real-life driving could affect his actual performance.
• 🎢 Simulators can't fully replicate the sensory inputs and details that a real-world driver experiences, such as G-Force and the feeling of the car's movement in the body.
• 👀 In an interview, Hamilton explained that vision is one of the last sensors used in real driving, but it's the primary one in simulators.
• 🛠️ Hamilton views the simulator more as a car development tool rather than a driver development tool, focusing on ensuring the right tests are conducted for the Mercedes.
• 🏁 Despite his aversion to simulators, Hamilton revisited the Mercedes simulator to help with car development when they realized they didn't have a competitive car.
• 💡 The script suggests that Hamilton's extensive experience in F1 might make simulators less beneficial for improving his driving, as he already knows how to adapt his style and understands the circuits well.
• 🌐 The video also promotes a sponsor, Brilliant, which offers courses to learn about the forces behind motorsport and other STEM fields.

Q & A

Why does Lewis Hamilton avoid using the Mercedes simulator?

Lewis Hamilton believes that the simulator does not accurately replicate the real-world driving experience, particularly the sensory inputs and G-Forces that a driver feels, which are crucial for his performance.

What are the benefits of using a driving simulator according to the script?

A driving simulator can help drivers learn circuits, racing lines, and contribute to car development and setup changes. It also allows teams to make important decisions about car development and race strategy.

How does Max Verstappen utilize the simulator compared to other drivers?

Max Verstappen uses the simulator extensively, preferring to do it himself rather than relying on a test driver. He believes in aligning the car's development with his own driving style and preferences.

What are the differences between driver-in-the-loop simulators and computer simulations?

Driver-in-the-loop simulators involve a driver actively driving, while computer simulations run laps without human input, analyzing data and performance at a rapid pace.

Why might a driver not want to spend time practicing on a simulator even with multiple World titles?

A driver like Hamilton might feel that the simulator does not offer the same sensory experience as real-world driving, and thus, practicing on it might not improve or could even hinder his real-world performance.

What is the main issue Hamilton has with simulators in terms of replicating real-world driving?

Hamilton's main issue is that simulators cannot replicate the G-Forces and the physical sensations that a driver experiences in a real race car, which are essential for his driving performance.

What additional hardware can be used to enhance the realism of a driving simulator?

Additional hardware such as more responsive steering wheels, better pedal feedback, and devices that simulate bumps, curbs, and engine vibrations can enhance the realism of a driving simulator.

How does Hamilton view the role of the simulator in car development?

Hamilton views the simulator more as a car development tool rather than a driver development tool. He believes in working with test drivers to ensure they are working on the right aspects to develop the Mercedes car properly.

What is Hamilton's strategy for conserving energy during a race weekend?

Hamilton focuses on maintaining his energy throughout the race weekend to ensure he is at his best during the actual race. He avoids activities that he feels waste energy, such as extensive simulator use.

Why might a driver choose not to use a simulator despite its potential benefits for car development?

A driver might choose not to use a simulator if they believe it does not accurately reflect the real-world driving experience and could potentially train their brain to react in a way that is not optimal for an F1 car.

How does the script suggest that Hamilton could improve his use of the simulator?

The script suggests that Hamilton could improve his use of the simulator by focusing on car development, ensuring that the test drivers are working on the right aspects to tailor the car to his driving style.