Kubica and Heidfeld in action for BMW
Some three weeks after the 2007 Formula One season finale, Nick Heidfeld and Robert Kubica have commenced a three-day test programme in Barcelona. Both BMW Sauber F1 Team drivers took to the track at the "Circuit de Catalunya", using the new standard ECU.
With temperatures reaching 19 degrees Celsius, 20 drivers used the opportunity to take part in the first winter test programme of the year. After a cold start in the morning, conditions improved and it was sunny in the afternoon.
Robert completed 58 laps of the 4,655 kilometre track. His personal best time was 1:22,883 minutes. Nick lapped the Spanish track 75 times, with a fastest lap of 1:23,671 minutes.
During the three-day Barcelona programme, the BMW Sauber F1 Team is focusing on testing the new standard ECU which will be mandatory in all F1 cars in 2008. In addition to set-up work and system programming, this will include driving without traction control. Apart from some teething problems with the new electronics, and several red flags, it was a productive day.
Robert and Nick will continue to drive on Wednesday and Thursday, working together with their engineers in order to gaining experience with the standard ECU.
