Williams happy with first smooth KERS day
Williams were happy today after testing finished, as today marked their first day of running with KERS. More importantly, the system ran without problems after experiencing varying gremlins on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Sam Michael, Technical Director:
"The main target for today was to get the KERS running and for Pastor to familiarise himself with the FW33. He did a good job learning all the control systems. There is a lot for a driver to think about in the cockpit now with the KERS, the rear wing, the brakes as well as keeping the tyres up to temperature. We did more set-up changes today to keep learning about the car and some longer runs for stabilised temperature checks. We ran 100 laps trouble-free so are quite happy with that. Overall it has been a good shakedown test for us."
Pastor Maldonado:
"I am feeling much more confident in the car now using both the KERS and the rear wing. I am also working even better with the team and developing the car over both long and short runs. I am feeling better every time I get in the car."
AT&T Williams will be back on track to continue pre-season testing in Jerez, Spain from 10 – 13 February. Pastor Maldonado will drive for days one and two with Rubens Barrichello taking over for days three and four.
Test details
Driver: Pastor Maldonado
Chassis / engine: FW33-01 / CA320
Location: Circuito de la Comunidad Valenciana Ricardo Tormo. 4.005km
Objectives: General set up work and KERS testing
Weather: Warm with sunshine
Air & track temps: 19ºC / 23ºC
