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It was something of a roller-coaster season for the BMW Sauber team in 2008. The Hinwil-based squad finished the season a solid third in the championship standings and achieved its stated objectives of recording its first Grand Prix victory.

While the team put a great deal of emphasis on its 2009 car from the mid-season point, they did continue to develop the F1.08 package. Technical Director Willy Rampf talks of the key developments made throughout the year.

BMW Sauber F1.08, Car Launch, Munich, January 2008
“The elimination of traction control meant that the cars would be more difficult to drive. Our goal was therefore to build a stable car with precise feedback at the front axle and lots of grip at the rear axle, in order to make the driver’s job easier. As far as aerodynamic efficiency was concerned, we wanted to take a significant step forward by comparison with the F1.07."

"We were able to achieve this objective by a number of measures including a special, compact engine cover. We opted for a very dominant front wing, the great potential of which allowed us to compensate for the entire range of different weight distributions. The vent chimneys combined with the lamellar outlet vents to permit good cooling without significant disadvantages for aerodynamics even under extreme conditions."

"By contrast with the rim covers, the Tomcat wings on the car’s nose and the vertical sidepod reflectors were not fitted to the car for the presentation.”

BMW Sauber F1.08, Melbourne, March 2008