The month of January is drawing to a close, and whilst we were concerned about a particular Honda-shaped deadline approaching, a spokeswoman has told us not to panic. So, we won't, and we'll look at what else is going on in the F1 world.

  • Charlie Whiting has issued some clarifications about the 2009 regulations, because let's face it, we were all getting a bit confused. There's info about engines, wind tunnels, slicks and aero, so get stuck in if you haven't already and let us know what you think.
  • Red Bull have signed up to use Renault's KERS system this year. That's not really a surprise as KERS and the engine are very closely associated and why make your own if you can grab Renaults?
  • The rumours about a Rome street circuit have surfaced again, which simply remind me about Quikmaps. Try your hand at a street map of your own, and share it on the drop.

That'll do it for now, there's bound to be more news later on in the day. Until then, I'll see you in the comments.

233 responses

  • Dave in NZL28/01/2009 at 00:56

    What will the big boys do with all the surplus capacity, now that windtunnel testing has been dropped to 40hours/week? All the lost jobs - some teams were running 3 shifts around the clock - seem ominous.

    And there is a good article on pitpass.com about the amount of sponsorship lost this year. http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_news_item.php?fes_art_id=36937

    Although it doesn't mention the amount of cash each of the manufacturers are putting in, it make for interesting reading.

    Would Seiko/Ray-Ban be willing to put their cash into another team, or do you think they consider the loss of Honda from F1 a bit of good luck?

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 01:00

    Even Force India had 24/7 wind tunnel operation, so it's fair to suggest that every other team did as well...

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 01:01

    Even Force India had 24/7 wind tunnel operation, so it’s fair to suggest that every other team did as well…

    Honda were working in 4 different wind tunnels

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 01:07

    Yes, and that would cause a bit of a problem for redeploying staff. One would hope that they got transferred into the road car aero division, but with the car market the way it is, I suspect most of them would have ended up in the dole queue. :(

  • me28/01/2009 at 01:12

    The rumours about a Rome street circuit have surfaced again, which simply remind me about Quikmaps. Try your hand at a street map of your own, and share it on the drop.

    or the wiki:

    http://sidepodcast.wetpaint.com/page/Quikmaps

  • me28/01/2009 at 01:16

    quick plug for a new feature on f1 minute:

    http://www.f1minute.com/category/f1-big-picture/

    basically large formula one pictures and something of a homage to boston.com. the plan is to put up pics on weekday evenings around the time the audio podcast is released. in theory they'll be topical and news story related whenever possible.

    thoughts on a postcard as always.

  • Dave in NZL28/01/2009 at 04:15

    basically large formula one pictures and something of a homage to boston.com. the plan is to put up pics on weekday evenings around the time the audio podcast is released. in theory they’ll be topical and news story related whenever possible.

    Brilliant idea. I like good, clean photography - and F1 related photos are the best!

  • Craig28/01/2009 at 07:32

    thoughts on a postcard as always.

    Do you two ever sleep?!

    Great idea and brilliant pics.

  • Craig28/01/2009 at 07:40

    Has Christine seen these little fellas?

    Ickle baby pandas.

  • me28/01/2009 at 08:38

    Do you two ever sleep?!

    yeah, just working together more efficiently than ever :)

  • me28/01/2009 at 08:49

    Has Christine seen these little fellas?

    oh man!

  • Christine28/01/2009 at 08:57

    Has Christine seen these little fellas?

    Oh my god!!

  • Journeyer28/01/2009 at 08:59

    yeah, just working together more efficiently than ever

    Awww. How sweet! Hahaha!

    Oh my god!!

    The look on your face must be golden! :D

  • Journeyer28/01/2009 at 09:00

    Great idea and brilliant pics.

    I second that. You'll update this everyday? :)

  • me28/01/2009 at 09:02

    I second that. You’ll update this everyday?

    mon-fri.

  • Dave in NZL28/01/2009 at 09:05

    I just drop.io'd an advert on our national new site - NZLers buying a BMW this month will get free tickets to the Aussie GP!

  • Christine28/01/2009 at 09:24

    I just drop.io’d an advert on our national new site - NZLers buying a BMW this month will get free tickets to the Aussie GP!

    Wow. So, Nick and Kub better do well then, or the crowd will be mad!

  • Flibster28/01/2009 at 09:26

    Bloody Bernie!

    Malaysia has gone to an evening race... Great... :(

  • me28/01/2009 at 09:27

    Malaysia has gone to an evening race… Great…

    gotta link?

  • Al28/01/2009 at 09:37

    gotta link?

    Autosport have the start times listed here.

  • me28/01/2009 at 09:40

    Autosport have the start times listed here.

    cheers.

    this isn't a bad thing is it?

  • Flibster28/01/2009 at 09:56

    me: 28/01/2009 at 09:40

    Autosport have the start times listed here.

    cheers.

    this isn’t a bad thing is it?

    Having to get up at 6am rather than staying up?

    Ok, It doesn't really effect me as insomnia assists with overseas races...

  • Alex Andronov28/01/2009 at 10:14

    this isn’t a bad thing is it?

    Personally I liked Singapore being the only one. I think that makes it more special. But I don't mind that much.

  • me28/01/2009 at 10:32

    Personally I liked Singapore being the only one. I think that makes it more special. But I don’t mind that much.

    it won't be dark though will it?

  • Flibster28/01/2009 at 10:36

    Possibility of a race ending at 7pm... could be getting that way.

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 10:42

    Having to get up at 6am rather than staying up? {Flibster - 5 comments ago}

    I would have preferred getting up at silly-o'-clock in the morning for the sheer magic of watching F1 in my pyjamas and sleeping bag. Can't really get away with that at 6am simce Mum regularly starts her day before then and I'd be considered lazy. (Worse, I'll get strange looks when I'm caught doing inter-Friday practise-commenting sessions when Mum wakes up...)

  • me28/01/2009 at 10:43

    Possibility of a race ending at 7pm… could be getting that way.

    i haven't read all of the link yet (doing several millions things at once (sequentially obviously)), but they're not installing a lighting system are they?

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 10:43

    Possibility of a race ending at 7pm… could be getting that way. {Flibster - 2 comments ago}

    Especially if Malaysia chucks in one of its occasional monsoons...

  • Flibster28/01/2009 at 10:50

    i haven’t read all of the link yet (doing several millions things at once (sequentially obviously)), but they’re not installing a lighting system are they?

    Not that I can see. Although they'd need to do it in Australia too if they are.

    Especially if Malaysia chucks in one of its occasional monsoons…

    True. Look at how dark it got at Brazil after the race - imagine that happening at dusk - they'd have to red flag the race.

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 11:03

    True. Look at how dark it got at Brazil after the race - imagine that happening at dusk - they’d have to red flag the race.

    Good point. And Sepang is closer to the equator than Brazil, so it goes dark quicker.

  • me28/01/2009 at 12:28

    unconfirmed, but i think this site is saying renault have done a deal with HP:

    http://formula1news.info/f1-hp-nuovo-sponsor-renault/

    assume that just means they're supplying equipment for the new CFD building?

  • Dank28/01/2009 at 12:30

    assume that just means they’re supplying equipment for the new CFD building?

    Well apparently...

    The ING Renault F1 Team is pleased to announce the beginning of a technical partnership with Hewlett-Packard. HP equipment supplied as part of this agreement will range from PCs, printers and workstations to Windows and Linux servers for both the Team's Technical Centre and the Race Team.

    http://www.f1technical.net/news/11510

  • me28/01/2009 at 12:32

    Well apparently…

    pah! english quotes take all the fun away :)

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 14:23

    sheer magic of watching F1 in my pyjamas and sleeping bag

    Yep, that was great the first few times. But then Sleep became a much more precious commodity.

    Well apparently…

    I really hope its purely technical - Renault have finally got a half-way decent livery and don't need a HP logo making things worse!

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 14:27

    I really hope its purely technical - Renault have finally got a half-way decent livery and don’t need a HP logo making things worse!

    It could see the return of blue to the car though, so not all bad.

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 14:33

    It could see the return of blue to the car though, so not all bad.

    If ING did pull out after this season it'll be ok. Its just that blue didnt work with the ING colours in the previous livery IMO.

  • me28/01/2009 at 14:34

    It could see the return of blue to the car though, so not all bad.

    they'll keep total though.

    red and yellow and orange and blue. i can sing a...

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 14:36

    red and yellow and orange and blue. i can sign a…

    Signing a rainbow can be done. In your case we'd probably prefer that to singing it :)

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 14:42

    red and yellow and orange and blue. i can sing a…

    They could conquer the children's toys market with that colour scheme.

  • me28/01/2009 at 14:45

    They could conquer the children’s toys market with that colour scheme.

    :)

    maybe the marketing department are searching for flav's pot of gold?

  • lou28/01/2009 at 14:47

    They could conquer the children’s toys market with that colour scheme.

    well there overalls already make them look like clowns :P

  • me28/01/2009 at 14:50

    well there overalls already make them look like clowns

    imagine if piquet catches a cold!

  • Journeyer28/01/2009 at 14:52

    Possibility of a race ending at 7pm… could be getting that way.

    Sunset is at 7, just like Singapore - there's still tons of light at 5.

    This is old news already - this was already more or less confirmed as early as November last year.

    renault have done a deal with HP

    Looks like HP is optimistic about the economy then. How funny that they come back DURING a recession. ;)

  • me28/01/2009 at 14:53

    Looks like HP is optimistic about the economy then. How funny that they come back DURING a recession.

    by far the best time. it's a buyers market.

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 14:59

    by far the best time. it’s a buyers market.

    Either that or they have some unsold inventory to dump. What better way to hide this than a "techincal partnership"?

    If it's anything like a "strategic partnership", then Renault are in trouble.

  • lou28/01/2009 at 15:01

    imagine if piquet catches cold!

    hahah XD

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 15:02

    Afternoon all.

    or the wiki:

    Indeed, since there is actually a widget for it.

    this isn’t a bad thing is it?

    What if it's absolutly chucking it down at the end of the race with no lights and its verging on dark?

    imagine if piquet catches a cold!

    :D

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 15:03

    What if it’s absolutly chucking it down at the end of the race with no lights and its verging on dark?

    They have rain lights.

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 15:03

    I've just composed myself after I managed to get my first pole posistion on BATracer.

    They have rain lights.

    Do they? I never knew that.

  • me28/01/2009 at 15:04

    I’ve just composed myself after I managed to get my first pole posistion on BATracer.

    go r.g.!

  • Scott Woodwiss28/01/2009 at 15:08

    me: 28/01/2009 at 15:04

    I’ve just composed myself after I managed to get my first pole posistion on BATracer.

    go r.g.!

    Indeed, hopefully the first of many :)

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 15:10

    go r.g.!

    Indeed, hopefully the first of many

    Thank you Mr C and Scotty

  • Flibster28/01/2009 at 15:22

    I'm so glad I've got the 1980 season to watch at the moment - I'd be going out of my mind otherwise....

    With KERS making an appearance this year, has anyone thought about the safety of the marshalls yet? Given that BMW has already hospitilised one mechanic when it discharged through him are we going to be seing marshalls wearing kinky rubber outfits or washing up gloves?

    Also, why do dentists take great delight in drilling pain straight into your jaw? Is it because they are getting paid for it? *grumble grumble damn root canals grumble*

  • RCC (aka Rocking Copse Corner)28/01/2009 at 15:25

    With KERS making an appearance this year, has anyone thought about the safety of the marshalls yet? Given that BMW has already hospitilised one mechanic when it discharged through him are we going to be seing marshalls wearing kinky rubber outfits or washing up gloves?

    No just Max and his female companions will be donning the rubber!

  • Lukeh28/01/2009 at 15:26

    Phew, breaking news from the Daily Mirror, the Pussycat Dolls approve of Lewis hamilton!

    I'm so glad they had to clear that up.

  • me28/01/2009 at 15:30

    Phew, breaking news from the Daily Mirror, the Pussycat Dolls approve of Lewis hamilton!

    excellent, i've been fretting about that for a while.

  • Lukeh28/01/2009 at 15:30

    excellent, i’ve been fretting about that for a while.

    Tell me about it, a weight has finally been lifted off everyones shoulders

    :P

  • Flibster28/01/2009 at 15:31

    Phew, breaking news from the Daily Mirror, the Pussycat Dolls approve of Lewis hamilton!

    Who?

  • Kris28/01/2009 at 15:31

    TheRegister (tabloidy geek news site) have done rather a sarky article on KERS safety, referring to the williams system:

    "All they now have to worry about is a kinetic storage device rotating at an unimaginably high rotational velocity ripping loose and flying off into the wide blue yonder like a frisbee from hell."

    Article here: http://www.reghardware.co.uk/2009/01/28/f1_readies_kers_safety_scheme/

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 15:32

    Who?

    The Daily Mirror - it's a tabloid newspaper.

  • me28/01/2009 at 15:32

    Who?

    THAT woman's best friends.

  • Flibster28/01/2009 at 15:33

    The Daily Mirror - it’s a tabloid newspaper.

    Riiight. :D One of the ones you can't even use a loo roll as it's already full of.... ;)

  • me28/01/2009 at 15:33

    TheRegister (tabloidy geek news site) have done rather a sarky article on KERS safety, referring to the williams system:

    excellent caption:

    real men use flywheels?

    hehe :)

  • me28/01/2009 at 15:36

    “flying off into the wide blue yonder like a frisbee from hell.”

    they're using an aerobie?

  • Kris28/01/2009 at 15:37

    To be honest, the more I hear of the Williams system the more I start to think they've stolen a march on everybody.

    There is still that doubt at the back of my mind though that we're going to see bits of flywheel flying off in every direction in a big shunt: God help anyone in the way.

  • me28/01/2009 at 15:40

    To be honest, the more I hear of the Williams system the more I start to think they’ve stolen a march on everybody.

    complete agreement from me. which other teams have a sneaky flywheel system under development though? they've all been a bit too keen to slap those high voltage stickers to the bodywork.

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 15:51

    I’ve just composed myself after I managed to get my first pole posistion on BATracer.

    Well done RG. I thought our game had gone funny but I guess your pole is in a different game

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 15:54

    With KERS making an appearance this year, has anyone thought about the safety of the marshalls yet? Given that BMW has already hospitilised one mechanic when it discharged through him are we going to be seing marshalls wearing kinky rubber outfits or washing up gloves?

    We discussed it here the day the BMW guy got zapped. Someone suggested everything would be OK so long as the car hit earthing strips and then we realised that if it stopped somewhere without earthing strips dor example upside down on a gravel trap saftety may be compromised. I am not sure Max and co have figured it out yet.

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 15:58

    To be honest, the more I hear of the Williams system the more I start to think they’ve stolen a march on everybody.

    The flywheel system has to have a weight advantage over all the batteries needed to store energy. Changing kinetic energy from the flywheel to kinetic energy at the wheels has to be more efficient than changing electricity to kinetic.

  • Flibster28/01/2009 at 16:12

    The flywheel system has to have a weight advantage over all the batteries needed to store energy. Changing kinetic energy from the flywheel to kinetic energy at the wheels has to be more efficient than changing electricity to kinetic.

    Unlikely as the flywheel system weighs 24kg on it's own....

    http://www.forumula1.net/2009/f1/f1-news/kers-flywheel-demonstrated-at-autosport-international/

    I also notice that they have tested it to forces of 20g. Is that all? Kubica's Canada 2007 impact was 75g, Hekki's in Spain 08 was 26g....

  • Flibster28/01/2009 at 16:18

    Actually, thinking about it. David Purley survived an impact of 180g at Silverstone in 1977

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 16:21

    I’ve just composed myself after I managed to get my first pole posistion on BATracer.

    Its nice isnt it lol?

    There is still that doubt at the back of my mind though that we’re going to see bits of flywheel flying off in every direction in a big shunt: God help anyone in the way.

    Im sure they've tested it to destruction, or at least made calculations on the energies involved to make sure the outer casing is adequate.

    Of all the teams, You wouldn't think Williams would run an unsafe car.

  • Journeyer28/01/2009 at 16:22

    Of all the teams, You wouldn’t think Williams would run an unsafe car.

    After 1994, I'm sure they'd never make that mistake again.

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 16:24

    Actually, thinking about it. David Purley survived an impact of 180g at Silverstone in 1977

    That is a complete exaggeration. The figure I remember was 179.8 G.

    I forgot about that KERS system being at ASI. I was planning on going to have a look at it but forgot completely. The problem as it says on the article is not taking one big hit but taking a hit and the car being rebuilt then taking more hits. The fact that they have tested it to survive on hit with a load equivalent to 11% of the biggest F1 hit ever does not fill me with confidence.

    I still think the batteries have to be heavier.

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 16:25

    3 minutes till the Valencia BATracer race finishes.

  • Alex Andronov28/01/2009 at 16:26

    Can somebody explain why the rotating flywheel doesn't cause longitudinal inertia?

  • RCC (aka Rocking Copse Corner)28/01/2009 at 16:26

    Actually, thinking about it. David Purley survived an impact of 180g at Silverstone in 1977

    That's an insane amount of G force

    They haven't seemingly thought the process through, if one of those flywheels shoot off into the crowd and hurts anyone I bet Max still comes out and rubs his hands free of any blame. Is anybody starting to get a little annoyed by this KERS concept? At first i thought it sounded great but the more that's discussed about it the more it seems to be really screwing the teams over. The 'boost' button sounds like something off an Xbox game, what next? points for most aggressive driving? cars totalled, total drifting distance etc...just seems to be taking it too far in my eyes

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 16:27

    3 minutes till the Valencia BATracer race finishes.

    I wonder who I Takuma Satoed this time.

    Its nice isnt it lol?

    Aye

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 16:28

    Well that was mediocre

  • Flibster28/01/2009 at 16:30

    Alex Andronov: 28/01/2009 at 16:26

    Can somebody explain why the rotating flywheel doesn’t cause longitudinal inertia?

    I can't....

    If there was two contra-rotating then they should cancel each other out - but one.. Pass.

    They haven’t seemingly thought the process through, if one of those flywheels shoot off into the crowd and hurts anyone I bet Max still comes out and rubs his hands free of any blame.

    Even though he has come out in favour of dumping the battery systems and going for a flywheel system as standard? Probably...

  • lou28/01/2009 at 16:31

    Woot! I came second! yay! go Honda :P

  • Scott Woodwiss28/01/2009 at 16:32

    WOW! All I'll say is the front two at the beginning of the race finished where they started!

  • Lukeh28/01/2009 at 16:33

    BATracer is so frustrating soemtimes :(

  • lou28/01/2009 at 16:33

    Well done Alex, pole to flag win. :)

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 16:36

    My car was only supposed to make two stops but it made three.

    Congrats Alex and Lou.

    I need to find away to overtake Lou. I tried for lap after lap and got nowhere.

  • me28/01/2009 at 16:37

    Can somebody explain why the rotating flywheel doesn’t cause longitudinal inertia?

    not out loud no.

  • me28/01/2009 at 16:38

    I can’t….

    If there was two contra-rotating then they should cancel each other out - but one.. Pass.

    there are two aren't there?

  • lou28/01/2009 at 16:39

    I need to find a way to overtake Lou. I tried for lap after lap and got nowhere.

    :P

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 16:39

    Can somebody explain why the rotating flywheel doesn’t cause longitudinal inertia?

    Maybe it is mounted sideways and causes latitudinal inertia. Either way it is a gyroscope. Logically if it is a gyroscope it is an aerodynamic device like an inertial mass damper and is therefore illegal.

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 16:40

    Lou,

    It is not funny

  • Lukeh28/01/2009 at 16:40

    My car was only supposed to make two stops but it made three.

    I feel your pain :(

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 16:41

    there are two aren’t there?

    Not looking at that picture from ASI there aren't. If you had two it would be complicated especially of they were contra rotating.

  • lou28/01/2009 at 16:42

    It is not funny

    maybe not to you :P but to me the thought of a Mclaren not being able to pass a Honda makes me smile ;)

  • Flibster28/01/2009 at 16:43

    Maybe it is mounted sideways and causes latitudinal inertia. Either way it is a gyroscope. Logically if it is a gyroscope it is an aerodynamic device like an inertial mass damper and is therefore illegal.

    Good point.

  • me28/01/2009 at 16:44

    Not looking at that picture from ASI there aren’t. If you had two it would be complicated especially of they were contra rotating.

    was going on the video shown on the factory. i have a bad memory though, i'll see if i can find it.

  • me28/01/2009 at 16:46

    actually, nope the video shows one as well:

    http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=04CarbWxX4o

    hmm.

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 16:49

    Between Andronov being brilliant(ish :P ) yet inconsistant and Dave in NZL's brilliant consistancy, Toyota have quietly snuck into 3rd place in the constructors!

    Well done all round though, nice to see fresh faces on the podium ;)

    RG - maybe you should put "Car Magnet" in your brackets, DC would be proud of you :P

  • Alex Andronov28/01/2009 at 16:51

    not out loud no.

    :)

  • lou28/01/2009 at 16:51

    Between Andronov being brilliant(ish ) yet inconsistant and Dave in NZL’s brilliant consistancy, Toyota have quietly snuck into 3rd place in the constructors!

    Honda are only 2 points away though :P

  • Alex Andronov28/01/2009 at 16:52

    hmm.

    That team name of yours is more relevant than ever!

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 16:52

    RG - maybe you should put “Car Magnet” in your brackets, DC would be proud of you

    I'm keeping my Save Croft Circuit one in. Might not work, but hell am I angry at it.

  • Alex Andronov28/01/2009 at 16:53

    Between Andronov being brilliant(ish ) yet inconsistant and Dave in NZL’s brilliant consistancy, Toyota have quietly snuck into 3rd place in the constructors!

    Dave had a quiet word in the Batracer team chat and suggested that it might be time for me to pull my finger out. That's teamwork for you. He didn't go blabbing to the popular press!

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 16:57

    not out loud no.

    In writing?

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 16:58

    Might not work, but hell am I angry at it.

    Then Keep it ;)

    Honda are only 2 points away though

    Indeed, the race is (literally) on!

  • me28/01/2009 at 16:58

    In writing?

    i can't answer it at all actually. at least not until i've read it in racecar engineering, and then i can repeat what they say :)

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 16:58

    i can’t answer it at all actually. at least not until i’ve read it in racecar engineering, and then i can repeat what they say

    :)

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 17:01

    Maybe it is mounted sideways and causes latitudinal inertia. Either way it is a gyroscope. Logically if it is a gyroscope it is an aerodynamic device like an inertial mass damper and is therefore illegal.

    Wikipedia says you can mount a flywheel on a gimbal (or gimbals) to counteract the gyroscope effect.

  • Journeyer28/01/2009 at 17:03

    That’s teamwork for you. He didn’t go blabbing to the popular press!

    Doing things the Toyota way, I see? ;)

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 17:06

    That’s teamwork for you. He didn’t go blabbing to the popular press!

    :P

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 17:18

    Wikipedia says you can mount a flywheel on a gimbal (or gimbals) to counteract the gyroscope effect.

    Wikipedia also has several things to say about the safety of flywheels too:

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flywheel_energy_storage#Advantages_and_disadvantages

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 17:23

    Wikipedia says you can mount a flywheel on a gimbal (or gimbals) to counteract the gyroscope effect.

    I would have thought putting it on a gimbal is going to cost energy especially if the gimbal is on an F1 car.

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 17:25

    I would have thought putting it on a gimbal is going to cost energy especially if the gimbal is on an F1 car.

    Indeed. I'd not considered the gyroscope effect, so we will have to look out for Williams cars going straight on in corners more than usual...

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 17:25

    Wikipedia also has several things to say about the safety of flywheels too:

    "However, use of flywheel accumulators is currently hampered by the danger of explosive shattering of the massive wheel due to overload."

    That could be seen as a slight negative

  • Alex Andronov28/01/2009 at 17:25

    That could be seen as a slight negative

    :)

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 17:26

    LPG has just returned home with a copy of Sir Jackie Stewart's autobiography. It's the hardback edition with DVD - cost £2.49 (it's a bit damaged). :D

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 17:28

    Other interesting quotes from the wiki article

    When the tensile strength of a flywheel is exceeded the flywheel will shatter, releasing all of its stored energy at once; this is commonly referred to as "flywheel explosion" since wheel fragments can reach kinetic energy comparable to that of a bullet

    Still, many customers of modern flywheel power storage systems prefer to have them embedded in the ground to halt any material that might escape the containment vessel.

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 17:29

    LPG has just returned home with a copy of Sir Jackie Stewart’s autobiography. It’s the hardback edition with DVD - cost £2.49 (it’s a bit damaged).

    It is a really good book although I am sure the bit on Fred Goodwin will sound differently now.

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 17:30

    That could be seen as a slight negative

    But on the positive side it seems the shrapnel tends to end up as "red-hot sand" inside the containment vessel, so that's alright then.

    The least comforting sentence is this:

    Still, many customers of modern flywheel power storage systems prefer to have them embedded in the ground to halt any material that might escape the containment vessel.

    :|

  • Jon Waldock28/01/2009 at 18:17

    Anyone seen this? http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns21135.html

    According to reports in Argentina, former F1 driver Carlos Reutemann will stand for election as president of the country at the next elections in 2011.

  • Journeyer28/01/2009 at 18:51

    Anyone seen this?

    2011? That's WAY too far away to speculate on. I wouldn't put too much stock on this... yet. If by the end of this year or the start of next year, the Argentine news suddenly shows Reutemann more, then we can start discussing this possibility.

  • Journeyer28/01/2009 at 18:53

    What I WOULD look at from Grandprix.com is that they think the Honda management buyout is likely. The key question for their 2009 season hopes is more about money than time.

    http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns21144.html

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 19:51

    Yep, that was great the first few times. But then Sleep became a much more precious commodity. {Selidor}

    When it comes to early morning sessions, I do a lot of planning to make sure I get the right amount of sleep. Fuji last year was a great example of attempting to combine the maximum number of sessions with being alert enough to work on Saturday and Monday without anyone noticing anything was amiss...

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 19:54

    Phew, breaking news from the Daily Mirror, the Pussycat Dolls approve of Lewis hamilton!

    I’m so glad they had to clear that up. {Lukeh}

    So it's not just THAT woman who approves of him, then?

  • Journeyer28/01/2009 at 19:57

    Nice video on the history of the Internet. And no, it's NOT boring at all. :D

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hIQjrMHTv4

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 20:00

    Valencia was a bit of a non-event for me.

    Oh well...

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 20:22

    When it comes to early morning sessions, I do a lot of planning to make sure I get the right amount of sleep. Fuji last year was a great example of attempting to combine the maximum number of sessions with being alert enough to work on Saturday and Monday without anyone noticing anything was amiss…

    Sounds like I should take a leaf out of your book for Melbourne ;)

  • me28/01/2009 at 20:31

    Nice video on the history of the Internet. And no, it’s NOT boring at all.

    promise?

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 20:40

    Nice video on the history of the Internet. And no, it’s NOT boring at all.

    Link?

    Where Wizards Stay Up Late is an excellent book on the origins of the Internet.

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 20:41

    Where Wizards Stay Up Late is an excellent book on the origins of the Internet.

    It's not boring either.

  • Journeyer28/01/2009 at 20:42

    Link?

    See above. :D

  • me28/01/2009 at 20:48

    See above.

    it's interesting, and factually correct. not sure it's that entertaining though.

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 20:50

    See above.

    I'm sure it wasn't there before. By the way, I'm 2 days older than the Internet. :)

  • Journeyer28/01/2009 at 20:51

    it’s interesting, and factually correct. not sure it’s that entertaining though.

    Awww. Oh well. I found it entertaining, in the sense that it actually presented the info in a creative manner.

  • me28/01/2009 at 20:52

    Awww. Oh well. I found it entertaining, in the sense that it actually presented the info in a creative manner.

    good production. i was sort of expecting something like the "facts" video i think you found the other day.

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 20:59

    While technically very good, it was a touch on the dull side.

    That "Did You Know?" video was great - watched it just again now infact.

  • Journeyer28/01/2009 at 21:04

    Did You Know is a VERY good vid. :D

  • Scott Woodwiss28/01/2009 at 21:04

    I am about to embark on a challenge to transform the lowest team in Formula 1 into championship winners. I have an F1 management game called Grand Prix World and using a tried and tested method I used once which worked very well, I will try to turn Minardi from 1998 backmarkers to championship winners by 2007, which is when the game ends.

    So, let it begin... ;)

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 21:11

    I am about to embark on a challenge to transform the lowest team in Formula 1 into championship winners. I have an F1 management game called Grand Prix World and using a tried and tested method I used once which worked very well, I will try to turn Minardi from 1998 backmarkers to championship winners by 2007, which is when the game ends.

    Grand Prix World? Never heard of that one before.

  • me28/01/2009 at 21:12

    Did You Know is a VERY good vid.

    the bar's be raised to high!

  • Flibster28/01/2009 at 21:26

    Grand Prix World? Never heard of that one before.

    Veeeeery old. Still pretty good though.

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 21:28

    Veeeeery old. Still pretty good though.

    I'm used to playing Grand Prix Manager 2. Shall have a look at this though

  • Scott Woodwiss28/01/2009 at 21:34

    So far so good. I've signed the 2 biggest paying drivers in Pedro Diniz and Tora Takagi, design work is already underway for next season's car and partner deals are ongoing with Mugen Honda, Elf and Bridgestone instead of customer deals so I get my engine, tyres and fuel for free instead of paying for it. The first two seasons is all about saving and earning money, so even sponsors are a no go for next season.

  • Jon Waldock28/01/2009 at 21:35

    I am about to embark on a challenge to transform the lowest team in Formula 1 into championship winners. I have an F1 management game called Grand Prix World and using a tried and tested method I used once which worked very well, I will try to turn Minardi from 1998 backmarkers to championship winners by 2007, which is when the game ends.

    you have 10 seasons to do that?!?! they couldn't even do it in that space of time!

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 21:38

    you have 10 seasons to do that?!?! they couldn’t even do it in that space of time!

    Damn that looks like one hell of a challenge, good luck Scotty then.

  • me28/01/2009 at 21:40

    The first two seasons is all about saving and earning money, so even sponsors are a no go for next season.

    you sure you're not in a honda?

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 21:42

    you sure you’re not in a honda?

    :) At least Scott's cars will have Minardi DNA...

  • me28/01/2009 at 21:43

    At least Scott’s cars will have Minardi DNA…

    :D

  • Jon Waldock28/01/2009 at 21:43

    Minardi DNA…

    your a funny, funny guy :P

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 21:43

    At least Scott’s cars will have Minardi DNA…

    :D

    your a funny, funny guy

    Oh dear. Run!

  • me28/01/2009 at 21:44

    Oh dear. Run!

    *doesn't look back*

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 21:45

    your a funny, funny guy

    I need one of these really: http://www.instantrimshot.com/

  • Jon Waldock28/01/2009 at 21:47

    I need one of these really: http://www.instantrimshot.com/

    does it make a noise? its a bit lost on me otherwise.....my sound card seems to have imploded...

  • Scott Woodwiss28/01/2009 at 21:50

    Damn that looks like one hell of a challenge, good luck Scotty then.

    Meh, did it before, won a couple of drivers and constructors championships as well as plenty of wins and podiums as a result. Should work again, as long as the suppliers I'm negociating with get so far into talks with my commercial staff and then pull out right near the end of the season which means i have no time to start talks with anyone else.

    you sure you’re not in a honda?

    If this partner engine deal pulls off, I'll be in a Mugen-Honda. Does that count? :P

    At least Scott’s cars will have Minardi DNA…

    Well, they are actually Minardi's. I know, shocking...

  • LadySnowcat28/01/2009 at 21:50

    Has Christine seen these little fellas?

    Ickle baby pandas.

    I want one....

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 21:52

    does it make a noise? its a bit lost on me otherwise…..my sound card seems to have imploded…

    It plays a rimshot - the traditional add-on to corny jokes everywhere.

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 21:52

    I want one….

    No, you don't. They do not make good pets.

  • Scott Woodwiss28/01/2009 at 21:54

    Meh, did it before, won a couple of drivers and constructors championships as well as plenty of wins and podiums as a result. Should work again, as long as the suppliers I’m negociating with get so far into talks with my commercial staff and then pull out right near the end of the season which means i have no time to start talks with anyone else.

    *don't

  • me28/01/2009 at 21:56

    I want one….

    you're not having one!

    oh wait... no, you're more than welcome to have one.

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 21:58

    oh wait… no, you’re more than welcome to have one.

    uh oh.

  • Joe28/01/2009 at 21:58

    Scott has Grand Prix World? Awesome. Is it really good? I have Grand Prix Manager 2, which was pretty decent but quite buggy. Had a 2008 mod for it too.

    Also Scott, added you on XBL. Notice that we have a few of the same games, such as Halo. Do you still have PGR 3?

  • LadySnowcat28/01/2009 at 22:01

    I want one….

    you’re not having one!

    oh wait… no, you’re more than welcome to have one.

    Why thank you "me"...

    I think I'd better have more than one and start planting bamboo immediately...

    How much does a panda eat?....

  • Scott Woodwiss28/01/2009 at 22:01

    Scott has Grand Prix World? Awesome. Is it really good? I have Grand Prix Manager 2, which was pretty decent but quite buggy. Had a 2008 mod for it too.

    It's probably for me the best F1 management game I've ever known and I've only played 2, the other being EA's F1 Manager.

    Also Scott, added you on XBL. Notice that we have a few of the same games, such as Halo. Do you still have PGR 3?

    I do, but it reeeally doesn't work! :P

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 22:02

    It’s probably for me the best F1 management game I’ve ever known and I’ve only played 2, the other being EA’s F1 Manager.

    I only have Grand Prix Manager 2, which I'm pretty crappy at. Lets just say BMW sauber took an awful plummet in my first game ;)

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 22:05

    uh oh.

    Oops. Just like me I missed that it is Lady Snowcat who wants a baby panda, not Christine. Thought there was going to be a domestic for a moment.

  • me28/01/2009 at 22:06

    Oops. Just like me I missed that it is Lady Snowcat who wants a baby panda, not Christine. Thought there was going to be a domestic for a moment.

    never. am hoping she'll keep us updated though. panda by proxy :)

  • me28/01/2009 at 22:07

    How much does a panda eat?….

    not sure. probably not that much.

    i heard the fur can be a problem though.

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 22:11

    How much does a panda eat?….

    Pandas are carnivores that have gone vegan. They need an enormous amount of bamboo - the Fount of All Knowledge that is Wikipedia says up to 14kg per day.

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 22:11

    How much does a panda eat?…. {LadySnowcat}

    A lot! You'll want a good dozen acres or so, if you're planning on feeding the pair just bamboo. Also, there will need to be several varieties of bamboo as none of them provide all the nutrients a growing panda needs.

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 22:13

    I only have Grand Prix Manager 2, which I’m pretty crappy at. Lets just say BMW sauber took an awful plummet in my first game

    Is anyone else seeing parallels here with Batracer? :P

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 22:14

    Is anyone else seeing parallels here with Batracer?

    ...

    :(

    ...

    :(

  • LadySnowcat28/01/2009 at 22:16

    How much does a panda eat?….

    A lot! You’ll want a good dozen acres or so, if you’re planning on feeding the pair just bamboo. Also, there will need to be several varieties of bamboo as none of them provide all the nutrients a growing panda needs.

    Hmmm...

    Current patch is mostly for the gees so perhaps I'll have to rustle up a few more acres...

    Thanks for the info Alianora...

    I wonder how Christine manages?....

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 22:21

    A lot! You’ll want a good dozen acres or so, if you’re planning on feeding the pair just bamboo. Also, there will need to be several varieties of bamboo as none of them provide all the nutrients a growing panda needs.

    Another website mentions that in captivity, pandas eat other things:

    In zoos, giant pandas eat bamboo, sugar cane, rice gruel, a special high-fibre biscuit, carrots, apples, and sweet potatoes.

    They'll also eat small mammals from time to time.

  • lou28/01/2009 at 22:30

    am gonna ask a very random question, but i'm not loosing my mind, i hope. it's for my photography. I can't remember the advert that was on T.V some time ago (early '08?) which featured cars and car parts moving around the screen as if they were in one of those kaleidoscope things. Does anyone rememeber the advert and what make of car it was? or is this something that i've imagined?

  • Scott Woodwiss28/01/2009 at 22:31

    Good news as I enter the final couple of races of my first season as Minardi manager. The car is done, partner deals are complete and I have the two highest paying drivers on board. Next season, the money will be rolling in, and from there I will be able to start building some solid foundations for my 10 year tenure at the helm.

  • Scott Woodwiss28/01/2009 at 22:34

    Put it this way - using this method, by the time I finished the 10th season, I had about $62 million and Ralf Schumacher and Olivier Panis as drivers.

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 22:41

    The latin name for the Giant Panda is: Ailuropoda Melanoleuca

    Fantasy Racers team name anyone?

  • me28/01/2009 at 22:42

    Fantasy Racers team name anyone?

    over my dead body! :D

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 22:43

    Good news as I enter the final couple of races of my first season as Minardi manager. The car is done, partner deals are complete and I have the two highest paying drivers on board. Next season, the money will be rolling in, and from there I will be able to start building some solid foundations for my 10 year tenure at the helm.

    How ya get on in the first season?

  • Scott Woodwiss28/01/2009 at 22:45

    How ya get on in the first season?

    Didn't score any points but then the first two seasons are ones which are going to be quite lenient in terms of any kind of result. But the focus is giving drivers low orders so that they can at least finish the race. Finishing higher than your qualifying positions increases your team's FIA ranking and that means more funding from them.

    1999 is now starting, the estimated revenue for 2000 shows as $16m already.

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 22:48

    Does anyone rememeber the advert and what make of car it was? or is this something that i’ve imagined?

    Wasnt this was it:

    http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=xVTv8m4I-RU

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 22:51

    am gonna ask a very random question, but i’m not loosing my mind, i hope. it’s for my photography. I can’t remember the advert that was on T.V some time ago (early ‘08?) which featured cars and car parts moving around the screen as if they were in one of those kaleidoscope things. Does anyone rememeber the advert and what make of car it was? or is this something that i’ve imagined?

    Wasnt this was it:

    http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=xVTv8m4I-RU

    Also that reminds me, Iv found the the full length version of that funky tune over the BMW "see how it feels" ad:

    http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=3B_r5rVU5rw

  • littlepurplegoth28/01/2009 at 22:57

    Apparently I have to post this (was going to anyway, but anyhow I've been shoved....)

    As Andy mentioned earlier, I came back from Borders with a bargain book for him. But this concerns the other 'happening' whilst there with DS (yes, I took a child to the bookshop, it was for cake and coffee....)

    Anyway - sat in the starbucks (so shoot me, lol) I was earwigging the conversation of two men at the next table (as you do when other people have more interesting conversations than you are :-P ).

    "I followed a link online that was talking about how Schumacher was going to buy Honda"

    "Yeah right.. it'd be more likely to be bought by Jeremy Clarkson!"

    There followed a discussion of who on TV would be more likely to actually be buying honda, and how Clarkson probably has more money than schumacher anyway...lol

    Anyhow, eventually (i.e. some minutes later and following the conversation diversifying into books, the stupidity of people trying to be green by driving a prius - "should just go the whole hog and buy an electric car and a couple of acres for PV and a turbine or two") they get back to the matter in hand

    "so where did you read that then, about schuy?"

    "I followed a link on sidepodcast"

    There was then a nod, as if it was the most normal thing in the world and totally obvious, and they donned their fleece jackets and left.... with DS saying "mummy those men have got bulls on their coats"

  • littlepurplegoth28/01/2009 at 22:58

    And that took so many less words to tell DP, than to tell you lot, sigh

  • Alex Andronov28/01/2009 at 23:00

    am gonna ask a very random question, but i’m not loosing my mind, i hope. it’s for my photography. I can’t remember the advert that was on T.V some time ago (early ‘08?) which featured cars and car parts moving around the screen as if they were in one of those kaleidoscope things. Does anyone rememeber the advert and what make of car it was? or is this something that i’ve imagined?

    It wasn't this one was it http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=pYnyRy4-mV0

  • me28/01/2009 at 23:01

    “so where did you read that then, about schuy?”

    “I followed a link on sidepodcast”

    blimey!

    There was then a nod, as if it was the most normal thing in the world and totally obvious, and they donned their fleece jackets and left…. with DS saying “mummy those men have got bulls on their coats”

    blimey!

  • Alex Andronov28/01/2009 at 23:02

    “I followed a link on sidepodcast”

    My goodness!

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 23:02

    And that took so many less words to tell DP, than to tell you lot, sigh

    Haha thats always the way isnt it? ;)

    Hmm,Was one of my comments moderated?

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 23:02

    blimey!

    blimey blimey indeed.

  • me28/01/2009 at 23:03

    i propose we start a sidepodcast fighting fund to buy lpg more coffee. all those in favour...

  • Alex Andronov28/01/2009 at 23:05

    i propose we start a sidepodcast fighting fund to buy lpg more coffee. all those in favour…

    Aye!

  • lou28/01/2009 at 23:05

    It wasn’t this one was it http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=pYnyRy4-mV0

    sadly not. don't worry, it'll come to me soon enough ;)

  • R.G (Save Croft Circuit : Sort marital problems without ruining my life as well)28/01/2009 at 23:05

    i propose we start a sidepodcast fighting fund to buy lpg more coffee. all those in favour…

    I'd rather save Croft to be fair, but if I have enough spare cash, then aye.

  • lou28/01/2009 at 23:05

    “so where did you read that then, about schuy?”

    “I followed a link on sidepodcast”

    oh wow, awesome :D

  • me28/01/2009 at 23:06

    oh wow, awesome

    we need a new emicon, one with a v.wide smile!

  • Selidor28/01/2009 at 23:08

    You need "as used by the F1 industry" somewhere!

  • lou28/01/2009 at 23:11

    Think i've found the advert i was looking for... i'm sure it's not the exact one but never mind. for anyone who is interested in what advert it was it's this one http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=xVTv8m4I-RU

    and yes, my photography project is involving a bit of editting atm ;)

  • lou28/01/2009 at 23:13

    you can tell i'm not feeling well today, i just typed a comment in the doohickey and then is disapeared, i can't remember if i clicked post or cancel. :/ being ill makes me very very forgetful and a little scatty.

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 23:15

    Another website mentions that in captivity, pandas eat other things:

    In zoos, giant pandas eat bamboo, sugar cane, rice gruel, a special high-fibre biscuit, carrots, apples, and sweet potatoes.

    They’ll also eat small mammals from time to time. {Andy Taylor - 22 comments ago}

    That's a relief. Those things don't take quite so much space as bamboo...

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 23:16

    How much does a panda eat?….

    Check the RSPCRF1 wiki. We must have researched that.

  • littlepurplegoth28/01/2009 at 23:17

    I'm just glad that my inability to ignore other peoples conversations comes in useful from time to time....

    (just no one have a juicy conversation near me that they don't want me to overhear... sometimes its a useful trait, but I hear far too much about other peoples !cough!!cough! lives than I want to

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 23:18

    “so where did you read that then, about schuy?”

    “I followed a link on sidepodcast”

    There was then a nod, as if it was the most normal thing in the world and totally obvious {littlepurplegoth - 16 comments ago}

    Wow! Kudos to Christine and me for setting up such a widely-known and respected site :)

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 23:20

    “I followed a link on sidepodcast”

    So sidepodcast has readers who think Jeremy Clarkson has more money that Schumacher?

  • me28/01/2009 at 23:20

    you can tell i’m not feeling well today, i just typed a comment in the doohickey and then is disapeared, i can’t remember if i clicked post or cancel. :/ being ill makes me very very forgetful and a little scatty.

    has been dug out for ya, along with selidor's.

  • me28/01/2009 at 23:21

    So sidepodcast has readers who think Jeremy Clarkson has more money that Schumacher?

    *bubble bursts*

  • lou28/01/2009 at 23:22

    has been dug out for ya, along with selidor’s.

    yay! so i did click post, phew. thank you

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 23:23

    *bubble bursts*

    :D

    If either of the people who took part in that conversation are lurking please let us know. It helps complete lpg's data if she has names.

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 23:23

    Check the RSPCRF1 wiki. We must have researched that. {Steven Roy - 3 comments ago}

    9kg+ of bamboo every day. It depends on the size and variety of panda, but for a pure bamboo diet it's an absolute minimum figure.

    Since pandas are carnivores, they could eat a completely meat-based diet and still live, but don't be surprised if they indicate displeasure at the blandness of the food unless you're careful (for example by training them from near birth to accept non-bamboo sources of food).

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 23:25

    So sidepodcast has readers who think Jeremy Clarkson has more money that Schumacher?

    Well, I suppose it's not like Sidepodcast has ever produced statistics which disprove the theory, even if the BBC is unlikely ever to pay any presenter $50m a year plus merchandising revenue.

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 23:25

    After having been away from my computer for a while the doohickey told me I had 85 unread comments. Is this a record?

  • littlepurplegoth28/01/2009 at 23:25

    OK, this is probably the point at which I should mention quite how many people around here work there or for the sister firm and may have those jackets... but these ones were not the 'normal' jackets that you see on clutches of spotty youth in town or waiting for the bus outside the dayrealease centre ^WW opps I mean 'college' ;-)

  • me28/01/2009 at 23:27

    After having been away from my computer for a while the doohickey told me I had 85 unread comments. Is this a record?

    bloomin' heck yes

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 23:30

    bloomin’ heck yes

    And it is still working an polling away

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 23:30

    *bubble bursts*

    I think they thought it as unlikely as Schumacher buying the team. Mind you, if Jezza did buy the team we'd know who one of the drivers was, well not his real name of course...

    Trouble is Top Gear F1 Racing wouldn't take it seriously.

  • me28/01/2009 at 23:31

    And it is still working an polling away

    might take it out of alpha soon then.

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 23:35

    I think they thought it as unlikely as Schumacher buying the team. Mind you, if Jezza did buy the team we’d know who one of the drivers was, well not his real name of course…

    You can guarantee the first acident would be Hammond

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 23:40

    You can guarantee the first accident would be Hammond

    :) I swear that man is channelling Roy Castle. Have you seen his CBBC programme - Richard Hammond's Blast Lab? It features Hammond, his science teacher (brought back through time, so she appears 10 years old), a ninja nan and Oliver - yes, his little yellow Opel.

  • littlepurplegoth28/01/2009 at 23:43

    http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00gnwk7/Richard_Hammonds_Blast_Lab_Episode_1/

  • littlepurplegoth28/01/2009 at 23:44

    If either of the people who took part in that conversation are lurking please let us know. It helps complete lpg’s data if she has names.

    And there is a little boy who would *love* to visit (suitably accompanied by his parents, of course ;-) )

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 23:46

    Re: link to Richard Hammond's Blast Lab

    It's as if we are in the same room as one another....

  • littlepurplegoth28/01/2009 at 23:47

    It’s as if we are in the same room as one another….

    lolol

    Now we just have to remember how to use our voices... go and put the kettle on would you?

  • me28/01/2009 at 23:48

    Now we just have to remember how to use our voices… go and put the kettle on would you?

    ooh tea.

  • littlepurplegoth28/01/2009 at 23:50

    He's glued to QI XL on iPlayer and isn't 'listening'....

  • me28/01/2009 at 23:53

    He’s glued to QI XL on iPlayer and isn’t ‘listening’….

    sorry, was watching hammond on iplayer... you called?

  • Steven Roy28/01/2009 at 23:54

    Hammond has a leather lab coat. Is Max involved in this?

  • Andy Taylor28/01/2009 at 23:57

    Hammond has a leather lab coat. Is Max involved in this?

    Apparently it's from Christopher Ecclestone's Doctor Who costume, but "taken in a bit" according to Hammond.

  • Alianora La Canta28/01/2009 at 23:59

    Hammond has a leather lab coat. {Steven Roy - previous comment}

    He's not going to pretend to be a farrier, is he?

  • littlepurplegoth29/01/2009 at 00:01

    He’s not going to pretend to be a farrier, is he?

    Lol - opening titles of the show do feature a stable door....

  • Andy Taylor29/01/2009 at 00:28

    sorry, was watching hammond on iplayer… you called?

    Hehe. It is a kids programme you know... We have an excuse.

  • me29/01/2009 at 00:58

    Hehe. It is a kids programme you know… We have an excuse.

    didn't have nothing on the telly like that when i was a lad.

  • Journeyer29/01/2009 at 03:00

    “so where did you read that then, about schuy?”

    “I followed a link on sidepodcast”

    Best. Story. Ever.

    Wow. :D

  • Jackie29/01/2009 at 03:55

    Hammond has a leather lab coat. Is Max involved in this?

    ooooooohhh! that's worrying.

  • RCC (aka Rocking Copse Corner)29/01/2009 at 13:11

    Hammond has a leather lab coat. Is Max involved in this?

    ooooooohhh! that’s worrying.

    If Max isn't involvded it won't be long before he will be!

  • Dom29/01/2009 at 17:35

    “I followed a link on sidepodcast”

    That's awesome! :D