Is this process going to continue?

"Instead of relying on new parts, we are going to concentrate on extracting 100% of the performance capability in the car. However, if we find something along the way, and if we have the manufacturing time available, then we will adapt the car."

But surely it's impossible to take something from the 2009 programme and use it on this year's car?

"That's a big problem for all the teams. Obviously we have started next year's programme, but the rules are so different that there is little to transfer in terms of improvements for this year's car."

The CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) Centre is already operational - is it entirely dedicated to the R29?

"At the moment, yes. However, to begin with we did some work on the R28. The brake ducts used in Monza, for example, were developed in our new facility."

Finally, do you think it will be possible to deliver a similar performance in Shanghai next week?

"On paper, we are not the favourites, but Fernando has proved recently that anything is possible. In any case, we will approach this race aiming for a win, that's for sure."

D.B. © CAPSIS International