Descrizione
The requirements for a competition car electrical system are significantly different from those of a standard road car. Such luxuries as electric windows and central locking are superfluous for competition purposes. Conversely, equipment such as emergency electrical cut-outs and fire extinguisher systems may be required in a competition car. Electrical system reliability is an often-overlooked aspect of competition car design, and a common source of trouble. even at the top echelons of the sport.
Competition Car Electrics provides a practical, illustrated guide to all aspects of electrical system design and implementation. The clearly written and extensively illustrated text begins by explaining basic electrical principles in layman’s terms, before covering in-depth all the various aspects of a competition car electrical system. Much of the advice provided is applicable to all branches of motorsport, from grasstrack racing to Formula One.
Advice is provided on designing a bespoke electrical system from scratch, and also on modifying an existing system for competition use, with the emphasis on reliability and safety. Coverage includes details of selecting the most appropriate cables, connectors and components for the task in hand, building a wiring loom from scratch and modifying existing looms, and maximising reliability and safety through duplexing, redundancy and fail-safes. There is also specific advice relating to batteries and charging systems, ignition systems, lighting systems, instrumentation, safety systems, in-car communication systems and automation of systems, and details of complying with RAC MSA regulations and the Road Traffic Act.
Jon Lawes is a lecturer in Motorsport Engineering, having previously worked as an instructor at an aviation engineering training school, specialising in electrical systems. He has worked as a race engineer on various competition cars, and is an avid motorsport enthusiast. He is currently developing his self-prepared Renault Clio rally car for endurance rallies.
