F1 Explained: What is DRS? Why does it help overtaking?

There are few greater thrills in motor racing than watching one car overtake another, whether diving down the inside, or sailing the long way around. Formula 1 has a special system in place to encourage on-track action. But what is the 'DRS', and how does it work? Here's everything you need to know.

WHAT IS DRS?

The Drag Reduction System, or DRS, was introduced into F1 in 2011 to boost flagging numbers of overtakes. Sections of the track, usually the pit straight and one other area, are designated to using the DRS - where overtakes become more likely. If a driver is within a second of the car ahead while passing the 'detection' point, they can use DRS once they are in the 'activation' zone.

HOW DOES DRS WORK?

Once activated, the DRS lifts a section of a car's rear wing, creating an opening that air can rush through. This reduces the aerodynamic drag of a car - its resistance to the air - and will give it a boost of extra speed.

It is estimated that cars will gain an extra 10mph through a DRS zone, helping to nudge ahead.

DOES DRS = MORE EXCITEMENT?

It depends on your view! In theory, more overtaking means a more exciting race. However, overtakes aided by DRS don't tend to be as dramatic as some of the more famous manoeuvres, where the drivers' skill and bravery is truly put to the test. Watching a car blast past another before the braking zone does not always get the pulse racing in the same way, unfortunately.

HAS OVERTAKING GONE UP?

Yes and no. Overtaking manoeuvres shot up once DRS was introduced, but those numbers came crashing down again last year, when new regulations meant cars were wider and quicker in straight lines, making passing much more difficult. Statistics showed that overtakes were almost cut in half in 2017.

IS THERE A SOLUTION?

F1 has introduced a third DRS zone for the 2018 season-opening race in Melbourne. Only five overtakes were recorded at Albert Park in 2017, two of which came in one thrilling move involving Esteban Ocon, Nico Hulkenberg and Fernando Alonso. The plan is likely to be used in Sochi, too, where there was a solitary pass in 2017.