12/03/2015
NEWS STORY
An engine software issue could put the dampers on Manor's Melbourne hopes.
It is understood, though not confirmed, that the engine software the team is using is virtually useless and will prevent the team running this weekend.
Only given the green light in the last couple of weeks, the south Yorkshire outfit is using a 2014 car compliant with all the 2015 regulations in preparation of a purpose-built 2015 car which should be introduced over the coming months.
While the car passed official scrutineering this morning, and is therefore officially permitted to race, it is understood that it was subsequently discovered that the engine software isn't working because all the data was wiped at the time of the team's financial meltdown last year.
According to Auto Motor und Sport, the team wiped all its data when it appeared it was finished. Ferrari has the relevant data, Marussia sticking with the same power units it used in 2014, however, already owed a sizeable amount of money by the British team, the Maranello manufacturer is unwilling to provide the necessary data unless some of that money is forthcoming.
"This team has worked incredibly hard over the past few weeks to build a car compliant with the current regulations," said Graeme Lowdon. "As you can appreciate we have had to overcome numerous hurdles, and we still face others given the complexities involved.
"But we are racers and fighters and we will do our utmost to compete for all our fans and the people supporting us."
With second driver, Roberto Merhi, only confirmed on Monday, neither he nor Will Stevens has driven the car. It's entirely possible that they may have to wait another couple of weeks.
Indeed, Auto Motor und Sport, claims the problem might not be solved before Bahrain.