Willem has compiled these carefully selected resources to help you deepen your understanding of aerodynamics and the performance research behind Formula 1.
None of this additional reading is necessary for this course – the video lessons provide everything you need to understand F1 aerodynamics. However, if you want to further your understanding beyond the course content, then it’s all here. The list is structured to progress from accessible introductions to advanced technical material, allowing you to build knowledge systematically.
📚 Books
For Beginners & Enthusiasts
“Vehicle Aerodynamics – Testing, Modification & Development” by Julian Edgar (2023)
- Easy to understand with extensive illustrations
- Covers actual and virtual aerodynamic testing
- Accessible even without specialist knowledge
- Large volume packed with real-world testing examples
- Completely replaces his previous book: “Modifying the Aerodynamics of your Road Car”
- Paperback ISBN: 979-8391835974
“New Directions in Race Car Aerodynamics: Designing for Speed” by Joseph Katz
- Willem considers this the best general race car aerodynamics book available
- Readable without high technical knowledge, but rewards deeper technical engagement
- Essential foundation for motorsport aerodynamics
- 2nd edition 1996, Paperback ISBN: 978-0837601427
For University Students & Technical Study
Important Note: Aerodynamics is typically taught in later university years after students have mastered advanced mathematics. Even basic aerodynamics requires 150-200 hours of study, with useful practical application demanding several hundred additional hours.
“Automotive Aerodynamics” by Joseph Katz (2016)
- Highly technical book designed for university students
- Willem’s primary teaching text for motorsports/automotive students
- Uses SI units (ideal for Europe and UK)
- eBook ISBN: 978-1119185734; hardback/paperback ISBN: 9781119185727
“Understanding Aerodynamics: Arguing from the Real Physics” by Doug McLean
- Based on decades of industrial experience at Boeing
- Focuses on real-world physics applications
- John Wiley & Sons Ltd, 2013
- eBook and Hardback ISBN: 978-1119967514
“Aerodynamics of Road Vehicles: From Fluid Dynamics to Vehicle Engineering” edited by Wolf-Heinrich Hucho
- Currently in 6th edition, available in multiple languages
- Widely used aerodynamics teaching textbook
- 2013 eBook ISBN: 978-1483102078, hardback ISBN: 978-0408014229, paperback ISBN: 978-1483108414
“Competition Car Aerodynamics” by Simon McBeath
- Practical approach with moderate technical level
- Good introductory read for competition applications
- Veloce, 3rd edition 2017, hardback ISBN: 978-1787111028
Specialised Resources
“Learn & Compete” Formula SAE/Student Book (2nd edition)
- Comprehensive 2-volume guide for FSAE/FS car preparation
- Written by respected judges
- Published by Kimberley Media Group
- Available here
Carroll Smith Books
- While older publications, the engineering principles remain timeless
- Perfect for understanding fundamental race car performance concepts
- Essential for overall race car development knowledge
🎬 Willem’s Online Content
Video Resources
- LinkedIn Profile: Connect with Willem for regular updates: linkedin.com/in/willemtoet1. You can also find Scott here: linkedin.com/in/scottmansell
- Educational Videos: Hours of F1 aerodynamics content: Formula 1 Educational Videos
Technical Articles
Fundamental Concepts:
- Atmospheric Air: The Power of a Bit of Air
- Air Density Effects: Mexico F1 Race Special Post
Aerodynamic Devices:
- Ducts: Willem Toet Explains Air Ducts
- Diffusers:How Do Motorsport Ground Effect Diffusers Work?
- Additional technical information: RaceTech Diffusers Article
- Double Diffuser: Mysteries of Formula 1 Double Diffusers
- F-Ducts: Formula 1 F-Duct & R-Wings Aero Challenge
Analysis & Testing:
- CFD Post-Processing: Computational Fluid Dynamics (includes links to 3 additional RaceTech articles)
- Force Analysis: What Parts of a Formula 1 Car Generate the Main Aerodynamic Forces?
Career Guidance:
- Getting Started: Getting Your Dream Job (aimed at students but valuable for all career stages)
Note: Most LinkedIn posts include links to Willem’s complete article collection
🎓 Academic Resources
MIT OpenCourseWare – Aerodynamics
- Comprehensive university-level aerodynamics courses
- Free access to lecture materials and problem sets
- MIT Aerodynamics Courses
📝 Study Recommendations
For Self-Study Success:
- Ensure strong mathematical foundation before tackling advanced texts
- Dedicate sufficient time – aerodynamics requires substantial study commitment
- Progress systematically from basic to advanced materials
- Combine theoretical study with practical examples from Willem’s articles
- Use the video content to reinforce written material
Course Integration:
- Use these resources to supplement the video lessons
- Refer to specific articles when encountering related topics in the course
- The books provide deeper mathematical foundation for the practical applications demonstrated in the videos
Remember: Every journey through motorsport is different, so think for yourself and find the learning path that works best for your goals and background.