24/06/2005
NEWS STORY
The BMW WilliamsF1 Team completed a two day test at the Jerez de la Frontera circuit, in Spain, today. Nick Heidfeld and the team's test driver, Antonio Pizzonia, were on duty on both days and completed a comprehensive programme developing the MK2 bodywork in preparation for the next round of the season, the French Grand Prix, to be held in France on 3rd July.
Over the two days, Heidfeld and Pizzonia completed 243 laps, a total of just over 1,000 kms. The team's next test will again be in Jerez, after the French / British double header. The three day test will commence on 13th July.
Tim Newton (Test Team Manager, WilliamsF1): "It is refreshing to test somewhere without it raining! The good weather we've experienced over the past two days allowed us to fully prepare the cars for the forthcoming European races. It's been a busy and interesting test, during which we've completed an extensive programme identifying and ironing out any problems on the new MK2 bodywork before the French Grand Prix. Both drivers also carried out tyre testing with Michelin and Nick also ran some systems checks. Overall, the team's enjoyed a productive couple of days."
Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director): "The Jerez test was a productive one for the team with the focus being on the FW27's new aerodynamic parts for Magny-Cours. From our perspective, it was important to test the bodywork's thermal influences. Because we concentrated on the bodywork evaluation, we had a limited programme in terms of engine development, the work we did do concentrated on the car's traction control."