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FIA was concerned about nose heights and the possibility of the high noses piercing the cockpit area in the event of a crash. So, the FIA has specified the nose height starting in a very specific area (right around the wheels). This is why we see the horrible looking "drop" there on the top of the chassis.
Now, since most mfgs. are interested in controlling and channeling the air underneath the car, the chassis tends to be a little higher just aft of the front wheel center line, again contributing to the step down in the nose area.
McLaren subscribes to the "lower CG is better" philosophy, so their nose looks good! However, this somewhat limits the amount of air passing under the car and being channeled to the radiator ducts, etc.
It'll be interesting to see what solution works well. The new Red Bulls (Adrian Newey designed!) uses the step down as an air inlet for driver cooling (and other things most likely).
Fun stuff! Love this time of year and all the new innovations!
Al
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