F1 jargon broken down and explained

Interested in Formula One but confused about the new systems put into place? Can't differentiate between your KRS from your DRS? Too big a F1 fan to ask? We put things in perspective for the novice fans who aspire to debate F1 rules with the self-proclaimed track-trackers. Take a speed-read.

KERS

You do not have to get yourself a copy of the collectors edition of Gran Turismo to know what this is all about. KERS or Kinetic Energy Reserve System, to put in the simplest of ways, is a device used to store and convert energy (waste heat)  produced during braking of Formula One cars, to power which can be brought in to boost acceleration. The energy, once harnessed, is stored in batteries. Then there is the other option of hydraulic KERS, which simply converts the braking energy to hydraulic pressure that is then released to the wheels. All in a bid to cut lap times. There is a Sebastian Vettel video on Youtube that may be watched for further clarification. The German himself explains the system although too much deliberation on it will only lead to needless physics gibberish.

DRS

Drag Reduction System is in the news for both being criticised as a system that has made overtaking extremely simple and as a system lauded for making the sport exciting. Again in the simplest of terms, DRS is a means by which a driver can manipulate the rear wing of his car to improve its wind-cutting ability for an extra burst of speed while overtaking. Of course there are rules related to its use. 1. Can only be done on specified straight sections of a track. 2. The car behind must be within a second of the car ahead. 3. The car in front cannot employ the system to fight back or break away.