This study looks into the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) of Formula 1's Drag Reduction System (DRS) and how it relates to hybrid powertrain energy recovery. A representative Formula 1 rear wing was modeled according to current FIA regulations and simulated in ANSYS Fluent at 80 m/s using steady, incompressible RANS equations with the k–ω SST turbulence model. The findings show that when DRS is activated, the drag coefficient drops by 10%. However, this comes at the cost of losing 41% of downforce. Our flow visualizations illustrate a shift from attached flow to separated wake structures during DRS deployment. Notably, the reduction in aerodynamic drag yields a measurable reduction in aerodynamic power demand with implications for hybrid energy efficiency. This highlights a specific but valuable efficiency gain. We validated our methodology by comparing our results with existing experimental and numerical studies, which also align with what's already published. On top of that, Industrial Engineering and Operations Management (IEOM) principles were applied to interpret DRS deployment as a constrained operational decision problem. We framed DRS and used as a strategic decision-making process that weighs quick overtaking chances against long-term energy savings. This cross-disciplinary approach sheds light on how regulated tech changes can boost efficiency in complex, fast-paced environments like Formula 1 racing.

Keywords: Aerodynamics, Drag Reduction, Formula 1, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Hybrid Powertrain, Energy Recovery.