FIA Sets DRS Activation Zone for Shanghai

Like Sepang, the Shanghai International Circuit features two straight lines that will make the DRS (drag reduction system) and KERS (kinetic energy recovery system) sine qua non elements of F1 racing this weekend. Well, maybe Red Bull might argue with the latter, since they haven't used the unit that much in the first 2 rounds of 2011, but still, one could agree that as long as there are long straight, those two devices will play a big role in the race equation this Sunday.

And since KERS doesn't come with any FIA rules connected to it (no major stuff anyway), the DRS can only be used on a single straight, with certain zones to be decided upon by the ruling body on the eligibility of the adjustable rear wing use.

And for China, the FIA has made things pretty simple. This weekend, the DRS may only be used in the race on the back straight of the Shanghai circuit – not the start/stop line in front of the pit area, like in Malaysia – while the activation zone has been set a few tens of meters before the half point of the straight, after exiting Turn 13.

Additionally, DRS detection – where the time between the two drivers will be taken into account by the FIA stewards, given that the trailing driver can only activate his adjustable rear wing to overtake a competitor if he is places within a second behind him – was set for mid-point through Turn 11.