Slipstream
A slipstream (draft or tow) is the pocket of low-pressure air behind a car. Following closely cuts your aerodynamic drag, letting you gain speed and set up an overtake.
Slipstream — definition
A slipstream (also draft or tow) is the pocket of low-pressure air that trails behind a moving car. A following driver who tucks into it meets less aerodynamic drag, so they can carry more speed down a straight while using less throttle.
The classic use is the overtake: sit in the leader's slipstream down a straight, then pull out and pass before braking. It matters most on high-speed circuits and in fast, low-downforce cars — which is why slipstream battles are a hallmark of F1 and oval racing in sim racing.
