BMW drivers start test programmes two hours late due to cold weather

The BMW Sauber F1 Team again ran two F1.08B interim cars that are based on the 2008 chassis with some of the bodywork from the 2009 regulations. While Nick Heidfeld used a conventional car, Robert Kubica continued the development work with BMW’s own KERS device. Both drivers started their test programmes nearly two hours late due to the cold morning temperatures.

After the sun had heated up the track, Heidfeld and Kubica worked on the set-up of their respective cars. The main goal again was collecting data in preparation for the 2009 season. Kubica concentrated on energy strategies while using the KERS system. Heidfeld evaluated different solutions for the mechanical set-up of the car, while the team collected more information on the new slick tyres. “After the delay in the morning the weather was nearly perfect, so overall it was a good day for me“, Heidfeld said after completing 85 laps. “I did short as well as long runs to compare tyre wear. At the end of the session I did some race start simulations, as this is also an area where we have to adjust to the slick tyres.”

What comes next:
The BMW Sauber F1 Team will continue testing in Jerez tomorrow. Robert Kubica and Christian Klien will be on duty.

Robert Kubica
Chassis / engine: BMW Sauber F1.08B-03 / BMW 86/9 KERS
Test kilometres today: 271 km (61 laps)
Fastest lap: 1:20.006 min

Nick Heidfeld
Chassis / engine: BMW Sauber F1.08B-06 / BMW 86/9
Test kilometres today: 377 km (85 laps)
Fastest lap: 1:19.303 min