03/03/2012
NEWS STORY
For the third successive season, HRT will not turn a wheel in pre-season testing, as the Spanish team admits its new car will not be in ready for the final day at Barcelona.
While last year Hispania was present in Barcelona for the final test, a problem with Customs in Spain meant that vital new parts didn't arrive in time for the car to take to the track - the F1 equivalent of 'the dog ate my homework' . Therefore, as in 2010, the car didn't turn a wheel until the weekend of the season opener.
This morning the team advised that despite its best efforts, construction of the car at its Munich HQ was behind schedule and the car would not be ready in time to run tomorrow.
Consequently, the team has written to its rivals seeking permission to carry out a filming day, a process where cars are run for promotional purposes but under strict conditions. The rules for such days are that cars are limited to 100 kms (62 miles) of running and can only use demo tyres.
Normally, teams have to give rivals seven days notice if they are to hold a filming day, but in this case it's thought the Spanish outfit will be given special dispensation.
For logistical reasons, Barcelona looks the best bet for HRT, however, it remains to be seen whether the team can complete the car in time to have it running on Monday or Tuesday.
Marussia, which missed this week's test when its car failed the FIA's mandatory crash test, is to hold a filming day at Silverstone at Silverstone this week.