Anti-stall

Anti-stall is an electronic system in race cars that automatically prevents the engine from shutting down when the engine speed drops too low.

In motorsport, engines can stall (completely stop running) when their RPM (revolutions per minute) falls below a certain level. This commonly happens during race starts, sudden braking, spins, or when drivers make mistakes with the clutch. Unlike regular road cars, Formula 1 and many other race cars don't have starter motors, so if the engine stalls on track, the driver cannot restart it and their race is over.

The anti-stall system works by constantly monitoring the engine's RPM and the driver's throttle input. When it detects that the engine speed is dropping dangerously low, it automatically engages the clutch or adjusts other engine settings to keep the engine running at idle speed. This gives the driver time to recover and get back to racing without losing power completely.

This technology is most commonly found in high-level racing series like Formula 1 and IndyCar, where engine reliability and quick recovery from mistakes are crucial. However, it's typically not used in junior formulas like Formula 2 and Formula 3, where drivers are expected to manage these situations manually as part of their learning process.

Anti-stall systems are particularly important during race starts, where drivers are managing complex procedures on the starting grid. They're also valuable during pit stops and when drivers spin or make sudden maneuvers that could cause the engine to stall. The system essentially acts as a safety net, allowing drivers to push harder while reducing the risk of race-ending stalls.

A famous example occurred during the 2022 Italian Grand Prix when Lando Norris had a poor start because his car's anti-stall system activated, preventing him from accelerating normally off the line but keeping his engine running.