Sepang provides a challenge to both the drivers and their engineers alike with a blend of high speed corners (such as Turn 12), rapid changes of direction (through Turn 5 and into Genting) and several slow hairpins and of course its two long, fast straights. There is also the extreme temperature and humidity to contend with. The result is a circuit that is tough on cars and drivers alike and the latter can lose over a litre of fluid per hour during the race.
The first and last corners are where the most important action is likely to take place, located as they are at the ends of the two main straights. The Pangkor Laut Chicane (Turns 1 and 2) is a right-hander that doubles back and drops away as it kicks back to the left. Turn 15 is the other main passing opportunity as a car can slipstream on the long run down to it. It's importance is doubled by the fact that any error in the corner can leave you vunerable on the run up to Turn 1.
Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix
Top speed:
297 km/h (190 mph)
Average speed:
210 km/h (133 mph)
Time at full-throttle:
65%
Time under braking:
15%
Gear changes per lap:
60
Tyre compounds:
soft/hard
Tyre wear:
medium/high
Brake demand:
medium
Downforce level:
high
Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix
Sepang is one of the most demanding engine circuits on the calendar with a high proportion of the lap spent at full throttle because of the high number of high-speed corners. Coupled with the high temperatures (higher temperature equals lower air density) the engines are really worked hard throughout the weekend.
The race has switched to an evening time slot but that is unlikely to give much respite unless the rain comes, therefore cooling is key - the brakes, the oil and water temperatures.
Setting-up the chassis and suspension to cope with the circuit's varied nature is a complex compromise. The high speed corners also dictate the aerodynamics with a medium high downforce setup adopted despite the cost in speed down the long straights. Those corners also put a significant load on the tyres, particularly the rear tyres and tyre management could be particularly important in Malaysia.
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Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix
Key Points:
Turn 1 - A long, undulating and tricky right-hander after the finishing straight that provides a possible opening to overtake.
Turn 7 and 8 - A seemingly straight-forward, double-apex turn, drivers need to avoid the bump in the middle of the corner which can unsettle the car.
Turn 14 - Heavy braking is necessary on the blind entry to the final turn of the track where it is important to carry as much momentum as possible onto the following straight.
