Technical challenges for Imola
The start of the European season will see the team introduce the season's first major developments: what are they? Bob Bell (Chassis Technical Director): We expect our Imola package to represent a sizeable performance step for the R24. Obviously, the B-spec engine will be a major part of that, but we also have the first major aerodynamic updates of the year, to the rear wing, bargeboards and diffuser in particular. Both drivers felt the developments represented a good step forward in testing, and we expect to see a combined improvement of around four tenths of a second per lap at this circuit.
What impact will the developments have at the front of the field? BB: We certainly hope that it will help us begin to close the gap to Ferrari, although of course, nobody is standing still and we cannot predict what steps forward our competitors might have made. But the new package will bring a consistent performance boost throughout the weekend. We continue to believe that if we qualify in a sensible position on the grid, around the second or third row, podium positions are definitely within our reach.
How will Imola suit the R24 package? BB: We had a very encouraging test there in February, and certainly believe the R24 will be more competitive there than last year's car proved to be. Superficially, the circuit does not suit the known strengths of our car as it lacks any true high-speed corners, and has not traditionally been one of our favourite venues, but the drivers were satisfied with performance over the kerbs at the pre-season test. It will be a tough battle this weekend, but I do believe that if one of the front running teams can prevent Ferrari from dictating the pace of the race from the start, then things could take on a very different complexion.
Looking to the race itself: how severe a challenge does Imola pose? Rob White (Engine Technical Director): In terms of the engine's duty cycle, Imola is not the most severe circuit of the season, but every circuit is tough, and the kerbs do complicate the operating environment for the engine. The introduction of the new engine is a particular challenge, and we have implemented extremely rigorous approval processes for the entire engine in its new configuration. On track, Imola rewards engine power and driveability, so the engine engineers will work hard with the drivers to optimise operating conditions and the calibration of control systems for the circuit.
