Article C13.4.3
Survival Cell Lateral Test
Technical Regulations
Article C13.4.3
Survival Cell Lateral Test
Chapter: C13.4
In Simple Terms
The survival cell (the protective cockpit structure around the driver) must withstand a sideways crushing force of 100,000 Newtons applied through a 200mm pad. The cell can flex slightly (up to 15mm), but must snap back to nearly its original shape (less than 3mm permanent bend) and cannot crack or break.
- Tests the structural integrity of the driver's protective cockpit against side-impact forces
- Allows temporary deflection of up to 15mm but requires almost complete elastic recovery (under 3mm permanent deformation)
- No cracks, breaks, or structural failure of any kind is permitted
- The test is applied at a specific location on the survival cell to ensure consistent safety standards
Official FIA Text
A pad of 200mm diameter must be placed against the outermost side of the Survival Cell at XC=-1195 and mid-point height. A 100kN transverse horizontal load applies. No structural failure permitted, max 15mm deflection, permanent deformation <3mm after 1 minute.
survival celllateral load teststructural integritydriver safetydeflection limit
2026 Season Regulations