Zoom BMW pushing on with developments to the F1.09 challenger

After a disastrous outing in Monte Carlo, BMW Sauber bounced back last time out with Robert Kubica racing hard and finishing in the points for the first time this season. The team head to Silverstone this week looking to build on the gains made with the new double diffuser in Turkey with Team Principal Mario Theissen refusing to write off the season.

“Going into the British Grand Prix we are well aware that we still have a serious amount of work to do,” Theissen began. “However, we can now build on our performance in Istanbul. We fitted a double-decker diffuser for the first time in Turkey and the effect was clear. Our car was fast enough to score points thanks to our own performance.”

“Of course, nobody within the team is satisfied with the result, but we will use it as a platform to put the next steps into action,” he continued. “We have increased our speed of development and will arrive at Silverstone with another package of new components. From now on we will introduce significant improvements to the car at two to three-race intervals, and these will include further development stages of the double-decker diffuser. We are a long way away from writing off the 2009 season.”

The F1.09 will feature new front wing at Silverstone amongst other components a circuit where downforce is critical despite the high-speed nature of the circuit.

“To be quick at Silverstone you need to have a car with a lot of downforce, but above all one with very good balance,” explained Head of Engineering Willy Rampf. “The track is characterised by its many medium and high-speed corners, and it is critical that the drivers carry a lot of speed out of them. Maggots-Becketts-Chapel is one of the best and most challenging combinations on the Formula One calendar.”

Of course this is the final scheduled visit to Silverstone before the British Grand Prix decamps and moves up the M1 to Donington Park. Nick Heidfeld for one is disappointed to see the classic venue taken off the calendar.

“The whole opening section at Silverstone is fantastic,” said the German racer. “Very fast and unmistakable. I would be really disappointed if Silverstone did end up being taken off the calendar. I’ve never found the circuit outdated - traditional yes, but not antiquated. In addition to the wonderful corners at the track, the very special atmosphere generated by the fans would be a big loss.”

BMW Sauber is eighth in the championship with eight points, three behind Renault.

Earl ALEXANDER
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