Panasonic Toyota Racing is pleased to announce the appointment of Frank Dernie as a senior advisor with immediate effect.

The experienced Englishman, who has been involved in Formula 1 for over 30 years, will advise the team on aerodynamic and chassis-related matters, although he will not have a factory-based role and is not expected to attend races frequently.

Dernie will add his considerable expertise to the continuous improvement of this year’s TF107 car, as well as the development of the TF108, under the leadership of Senior General Manager Chassis Pascal Vasselon.

Frank’s appointment at Panasonic Toyota Racing will enable him to continue with other commitments he has away from Formula 1 design.

Executive Vice President Yoshiaki Kinoshita said: "We are delighted to welcome Frank to the team. He has a tremendous amount of experience in Formula 1 and, as we are a relatively young team, this will help us move closer to our goals. We are continually striving to improve and I am sure Frank will make a positive contribution."