Since launching the FW27 chassis and the BMW P84/5 engine, the BMW WilliamsF1 Team has completed 25,370 test kilometres on three different tracks, generating an impressive pre-season reliability record. Michelin too have moved forward significantly with a one-race, harder compound tyre achieving long run lap times roughly comparable with the best times achieved by shorter life tyres last season.
Melbourne, home to round one, is one of the most exciting races for everyone because everyone wants to know where they, and their rivals, stand with their new cars and this year will be particularly interesting due to the rule changes. Added to this Williams have a completely new driver line up in Mark Webber and Nick Heidfeld, and the Grove based squad have put a lot of effort into preparing both men for the challenge ahead.
Nick Heidfeld is already in town and eager to get a bit of holiday time in before taking up his new role as a BMW WilliamsF1 driver…
“I’ve just finished a very busy period of testing and I’m really looking forward to the first race. I have reached one of my targets by joining a top team, now I want to work on my track performance,” he said. “The track in Melbourne is nice and demanding for the drivers. At the start of the weekend it will offer only a small amount of grip but, as the weekend progresses, this will change significantly."
“We proved reliable during winter testing, and this could be a decisive factor in Australia. The balance on the FW27 is generally better than that on the FW26, and for Melbourne we will be getting some new aero parts in order to improve its downforce. Australia is my favourite holiday destination, so it is great that we are flying out a couple of days in advance to acclimatise.”
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