Explained by Mark Hughes

Further details are emerging about the Ferrari SF-15T’s unique rear end layout. The Ferrari’s exhausts feed through a hole in the gearbox casing, lowering the centre of gravity over a conventional exhaust layout and improving the packaging, allowing the ‘coke bottle’ profile of the rear bodywork to be enhanced and thereby more aerodynamically effective.

Because wheelbases have been extended in the hybrid era to make room for the turbo and bigger ers systems, gearbox cases have been made longer for no other reason than to extend the wheelbase. This feature utilises the greater length to bring a further advantage. Ferrari also provides the gearbox and exhaust to Sauber, which therefore uses the same layout on its C34. The Ferrari has thus far this season displayed excellent aerodynamic efficiency, with strong straightline speed for a given downforce level.