Driving style: V-shape vs U-shape corners

Drivers each have a personal approach to interpreting the track. we've already explored braking technique and style, both in real and sim racing. Today, we’ll discuss cornering approaches.

There are two main categories:

• V-shape
• U-shape

The aim of both styles is to optimize speed and trajectory through a curve.

This style involves an aggressive braking approach (suitable for late-brakers). The driver enters the corner hard with the brake still engaged, aiming directly at the apex of the curve. Upon reaching it, the car is turned very sharply, sacrificing mid-corner speed to straighten the car as quickly as possible, allowing for an early and forceful throttle application (pushing the car to the limits of oversteer). Here’s a breakdown of the cornering phases:

• Entry: Hard entry with late, intense braking.
• Apex: Directly targeting the apex, the car is turned sharply, disregarding mid-corner speed.
• Exit: The car is straightened immediately, with the gas applied as early and firmly as possible, nearing the edge of oversteer.

Advantages of this technique:

This driving style works well for cars with a responsive front end on entry, like the Audi R8 GT3 Evo2. However, it requires close attention to the light rear end, both on entry and exit. Alternatively, this style suits cars with powerful engines but limited cornering speeds.

To favor mid-corner speed, a smoother and more “rounded” style is needed. The goal here is to maintain a high speed through the corner. The driver should aim for a smooth trajectory, limiting adjustments to steering, braking, or throttle throughout entry, mid-corner, and exit phases.

The phases are as follows:

• Entry: Smooth and progressive braking, accommodating the car’s weight transfer. Braking happens earlier than in the V-shape approach.
• Apex: A rounded, gentle trajectory allows higher speeds throughout the curve. Generally, a “late apex” is targeted, taking the inner line later than in the V-shape style.
• Exit: Here, too, smoothness is key: throttle application is gradual to avoid sudden shifts in mass that could disrupt vehicle dynamics.

As previously noted, these two styles have different purposes. The V-shape style is useful on twisty tracks with tight-radius corners often followed by long straights. The U-shape style is ideal for tracks with fast corners and high cornering speeds.

The driver’s skill lies in adapting to the different segments of the track. As we know, most tracks contain both high-speed and low-speed corners, so it’s up to the driver’s skill to be as effective as possible in every situation.