F1: Australian Grand Prix launches F1 spec changes

Front wings like tea trays and rear wings approaching the tall, narrow wings of the 1970s are the most visible signs of the radical changes to F1's regulations this year.

But other, and arguably more effective, aero changes include the banning of "winglets" and bargeboards and even engine cover fins - all designed to clean up the airflow and to allow drivers to get closer and improve overtaking.

The front wings have an aircraft-style flap that allows the trailing edge of the front wing to have up to 6% deflection.

More front downforce equals sharper turn-in. Less rear downforce (from the narrower wing) means increased risk of the back breaking away.

To counter this, the most popular change in spec: the return of slick tyres. after more than a decade of grooved tyres means an extra 20% of rubber on the tarmac.

The most interesting technological innovation Kinetic Energy Recovery System or KERS. Although not new tech, it's been deemed legal for this season. Braking energy is collected and stored - to be released the following lap in one or more bursts totalling 6.5 seconds per lap - giving an additional 82 horsepower: that's almost 10% of the engine's normal power.

But it comes with a weight penalty that changes the dynamics of the car. More weight means more weight transfer forward under braking, and more G under cornering.