How to Drive Like a Formula One Driver: Tips for Improving Your Skills on the Road

Who in their right mind doesn't want to be cruising around in this ride (okay, maybe whipping or speeding or some other fast sounding word is more appropriate than 'cruising')? 

And, despite the borderline too tight suits, who doesn't want to be one of these guys? I have an inkling that the ladies love them... AND they drive cars that travel at 220 mph (a small added bonus?)! 

I know, you're probably thinking, 'Tommy, how can I be one of these gods of the road?" Well, don't fret, I've got an easy, three step plan for you... well, sort of. 

So, let's break it down. What are the core techniques to being a Formula One racer? Don't worry, I've got you covered. And it's easy, there are only four main techniques. Easy peasy, right?  

1. Taking Turns

Alright, considering the energy that can be lost on a tight turn if done improperly (sorry, a little engineering got past me there... please don't hold it against me!) Alright, there are lots of highly technical articles out there about this, but let me explain this in the easiest, quickest way possible: When you enter a sharp turn (think, merging onto another freeway), the key is to minimize the amount of time that you're on the breaks (if at all). You also want to stay to the outside of any turn at all points in driving (obviously, still within your lane, where applicable). And when you get to the apex of the turn, crank up the gas.   You can use this part of the turn to gain your speed back. 

2. Drafting 

I've already covered drafting in an earlier post, so let's skip that part, shall we?   

3. The "egg-under-the-pedal technique"

Here I'm assuming that you are driving a manual transmission, but it can apply to automatic transmissions too. Any time that you are using the clutch (or break), imagine that there is a raw egg carefully balanced between the floor board of the car and the bottom of the pedal. Now, when you are applying or letting off the clutch, keep that egg in mind. Too quick to apply the clutch, and you'll definitely crack the egg. Too quick to let off the clutch, it'll roll to the back of the car and will stink up your ride for sure. If you're not already an expert at shifting smoothly, this will make you an expert. Your passengers will thank you, trust me.  

If that seems like a lot to remember, check out this video, and get inspired!

Now, go give it a go! Within reason, of course... for us lowly civilians, there's this thing called the law.