BME Sauber Barcelona test notes 2008-11-19

November 17th - 19th 2008
Day three - Wednesday

Weather conditions: Sunny all day.
Temperature: Air: 7 - 18C, Track: 9 - 23C

Number of drivers participating: 13 of 9 teams
Fastest lap overall: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull Racing) 1:19.295 min
Circuit length: 4.655 km

Nick Heidfeld
Chassis / engine: BMW Sauber F1.08B-03 / BMW 86/9
Test kilometres today: 494 km (106 laps)
Fastest lap: 1:21.592 min

Christian Klien
Chassis / engine: BMW Sauber F1.08B-06 / BMW 86/9 KERS
Test kilometres today: 410 km (88 laps)
Fastest lap: 1:21.534 min

Programme:
Again the BMW Sauber F1 Team concentrated on evaluation work with the F1.08B interim car. Based on a 2008 chassis with some aerodynamic components complying with the 2009 regulations, the two cars ran for 106 and 88 laps respectively. Christian Klien again drove the car equipped with BMW's own KERS system, working on the setup of the Kinetic Energy Recovery System. Just before the end of the morning session he had a minor off caused by a hydraulic-related problem in the drivetrain. After repairs he was able to resume testing duties following the lunch break.

Nick Heidfeld today was at the wheel of the BMW Sauber F1.08B without KERS, working on reliability as well as trying different solutions for the mechanical and aerodynamic setup with the 2009 season in mind. While getting used to the slick tyres he also had the chance to collect data on the all-new power-adjustable front wing. "Definitely the slick tyres provide more grip than the 2008 grooved tyres," Heidfeld said. "On the other hand we have to start from zero by learning how the slick tyres heat up and for how many laps they deliver optimum performance."

What comes next:
The BMW Sauber F1 Team will continue winter testing in Jerez, where two sessions - December 9th to 11th and 15th to 17th - will conclude the 2008 season.

-credit: bmw sauber