Article C2.1
Coordinate systems and conventions
Technical Regulations
Article C2.1
Coordinate systems and conventions
Chapter: ARTICLE C2: CONVENTIONS AND FUNDAMENTAL DIMENSIONS
In Simple Terms
F1 uses a standardized 3D coordinate system to measure and define car dimensions and component positions. Think of it like a GPS grid on the car itself: the X-axis runs front-to-back, the Y-axis runs left-to-right, and the Z-axis runs bottom-to-top. This ensures all teams and officials measure things the same way.
- Right-handed Cartesian coordinate system with three axes (X, Y, Z)
- X-axis is longitudinal (front-to-back), increasing toward the rear
- Y-axis is transverse (left-to-right), increasing toward the right side
- Z-axis is vertical, increasing upward from the car's base
Official FIA Text
The Car Coordinate System is a right-handed Cartesian [X, Y, Z] coordinate system. The X axis is the longitudinal direction of the car and increases rearwards. The Y axis is the transverse direction and increases to the right. The Z axis is the vertical direction and increases upwards.
coordinate systemcar measurementstechnical regulationsx-axisy-axis
2026 Season Regulations