28/01/2013
NEWS STORY
Lotus has unveiled its 2013 contender the E21 at its Enstone base in Oxfordshire. With limited changes to the technical and sporting regulations from 2012, little is changed on the E21 including the stepped nose.
However, the team is pushing last year's concepts even further as well as incorporating some innovative technical solutions. The new car also features a slightly tweaked livery, incorporating an extra touch or red.
Joining the team as third driver is reigning GP2 series champion Davide Valsecchi, whilst Nicolas Prost will perform Development Driver duties. Jerome D'Ambrosio will continue with the team as Reserve Driver.
"I think it is fair to say that great things are possible from the team and the E21," said Eric Boullier. "The leap we made from 2011 to 2012 showed what we are capable of. Add to this the continuity and potential of our driver line-up and we have a very powerful cocktail for the season ahead. Our ambitious plan to turn ourselves into one of the top teams in Formula 1 is coming to fruition and now we need to harness this with strong and regular podium results."
"The E20 proved itself to be an effective racing car - particularly towards the end of last season," added Technical Director, James Allison, "so there is an element of expectation from the E21 and plenty to build upon. We have continued with our design themes and tried to create a more efficient and faster racing car based on all the lessons we learnt last year. How successful we have been in this task will only be discovered when we take to the track at the winter tests and - more significantly - at Grands Prix."
"Of course, I've not driven the E21 yet so it's difficult to say what could or could not be possible for the year ahead," said Kimi Raikkonen. "We know we had a good car last season, but everyone is working hard to make the best package. I will be working with the team to help get the car as strong as we can, then in Melbourne we'll have our first taste of results. It's a long season from there. 2012 was a good start; let's see what we can do in 2013."
"I can clearly say I want to score a lot of points for the team, everybody knows that," added Romain Grosjean, "but I think it would be wrong for me to say I want to finish in a particular position in the championship. I really want to jump out of the car as many times as possible thinking that I did a good job. Knowing that everything I could do, I did, and feeling proud of my race or session. I hope to feel that way as many times as possible this year."
Check out our E21 gallery, here.