Article C13.4.3

Survival Cell Lateral Test

Technical Regulations

Article C13.4.3

FIA Source

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

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