BMW redesigns front end of sidepod

BMW Sauber finally introduced a major aerodynamic upgrade at Spain after struggling badly in the initial stages of the season. Already before the first Grand Prix, the team found the car's airflow around and onto the sidepods. The front end of the sidepod in particular was worrisome as it caused varying air pressure underneath the car and hence unpredictable downforce levels. An interim solution slightly helped, until now the team redesigned the complete front.

First of all, the sidepod's air inlet was reshaped and moved more towards the centre of the car. It now catches air flowing along the monocoque's sides. Because of this change, the outer side of the sidepod could be sculpted more gently. You can clearly see in the images that the new design is much smaller at its widest part - see the floor that now extends wider the the pod at the marker arrow. While the F1.09 still features one of the biggest sidepods of all current F1 cars, it's a major improvement already.

To further improve airflow towards the rear, the sidepod panel was also redesigned. It is now bigger, has a gap in the middle and still supports the outboard wing mirrors. Additionally, the team also follows the trend to fit small barge boards and turning vanes on the leading edge of the floor to better direct air around the sidepod.