The birth of the F1.07

The BMW Sauber F1 Team began planning and developing the BMW Sauber F1.07 as early as April 2006. Since then, the engineers have worked incredibly hard on the new car. The end result, however, has been worth the effort.

Both team sites worked hand-in-hand to create the BMW Sauber F1.07. While the experts in Hinwil were responsible for the chassis, the entire drive train was produced in Munich. Last year's vehicle served as a good basis for the development, as Willy Rampf, Technical Director of the BMW Sauber F1 Team, explains: "We have channelled our experience with the F1.06 into the new car, but at the same time focused on the new challenges presented by the 2007 regulations."

One of the most important changes was the switch to Bridgestone tyres. The control tyres are expected to provide less grip so as to reduce speeds at corners. Rampf explains: "It's clear that the cars are going to slide around more. It was therefore important for us to build a car that is easy to drive and that our drivers can trust sufficiently to go on the attack."

One example of how the required changes have been implemented is the layout of the front wing, which has been completely redesigned. The car's nose has also been completely reworked to provide optimal aerodynamic characteristics and is now shorter and higher than its predecessor. The engineers have also given a new look to the rear section of Robert Kubica's and Nick Heidfeld's vehicles. Because the rear of the BMW Sauber F1.07 is now slimmer and lower, this actively helps to optimise the airflow on the rear wing even further.