CHANGE

In-race refueling banned

EFFECT

Cars feature significantly larger fuel-tanks; efficient packaging becomes critical; in-race fuel stops will disappear; races will become more dependent on tyre strategy; pitstops will become significantly quicker (around 4 sec or less); cars will be significantly heavier and slower at the start of races, which could have consequences on tyre wear, drivetrain and brake life

CHANGE

Teams unanimously agree to no longer use KERS

EFFECT

Overtaking opportunities available to KERS-equipped cars will disappear; teams have far greater freedom on systems packaging and weight distribution

CHANGE

Narrower width introduced for (dry weather) front tyres

EFFECT

Smaller tyre will have knock-on effect for car aerodynamics and overall car balance

CHANGE

Aerodynamic hubcaps banned

EFFECT

A FOTA cost-saving initiative. Teams will look to recover their aero properties elsewhere

CHANGE

Wheel rim-heaters banned

EFFECT

While tyre blankets are still permitted, the removal of the inner heated core that heats the rim will make tyre warm-up more critical

CHANGE

Minimum weight increased from 605kg to 620kg

EFFECT

Cars will be heavier on track; ballast positioning will become more efficient

CHANGE

On-track aero testing reduced from eight to four days

EFFECT

Requires teams to capitalise on increasingly limited track testing away from the races; windtunnel testing is provided as a substitute

CHANGE

Backmarkers no longer able to unlap themselves behind the Safety Car

EFFECT

Safety Car periods should be shorter and the restart quicker

CHANGE

Points system runs from 1st to 10th (POINTS ORDER TBC)

EFFECT

Greater rewards are now offered to the winning driver, placing more importance on pushing for victory rather than accepting a minor placing; a greater spread of points ought to reward the larger field expected in 2010

CHANGE

Using a second additional engine during a race weekend carries a 10-place grid penalty for the following event

EFFECT

Engine life and effective usage will be even more critical, particularly towards the end of the season