Minardi launch the PS03

Minardi launched the PS03 in Melbourne this morning, in what was a low key event in Federation Square. Drivers Jos Verstappen and Justin Wilson unveiled the car, along with test driver Matteo Bobbi, which retains its mostly black livery and the European Aviation logos. A larger presentation event is due to take place later this afternoon, 4pm Melbourne time.

Emphasis was put on the partnership between Minardi and Cosworth, which will supply the team with engines this year: "The KL Minardi team is extremely pleased to have concluded an agreement with Cosworth Racing, which sees the company become our official engine partner for 2003," said team principal Paul Stoddart.

"The decision renews valued links the team has built up with Ford and Cosworth Racing over the years, and will provide KL Minardi with what is clearly the most competitive power unit in its 19-year history in Formula One. In combination with the latest chassis, I'm sure we will have a very strong package for next season."

Cosworth commercial director Bernard Ferguson said: "We are delighted to be working with Minardi again. This contract is just another example of how we are successfully developing our long-term future. We have enjoyed a strong relationship over the years, which, has been built on mutual trust and respect. I am sure the team is set to go from strength to strength, and we are proud to be the engine of choice at this exciting time for Minardi."

Car profile
Designation: Minardi PS03
Chassis material: Carbon fibre and aluminum honeycomb composite monocoque
Bodywork: Carbon fibre
Suspension, front/rear: Upper/lower carbon-wrapped steel wishbones, pushrod-activated torsion springs/rockers front/rear, mechanical anti-roll bars
Dampers: Sachs (to Minardi specification)
Steering: Minardi power steering rack and pinion
Gearbox: Minardi sequential, six-speed, semi-automatic, longitudinally mounted, titanium casing, hydraulic activation (Magneti Marelli ecu, Minardi software)
Differential: Minardi hydraulic/programmable units
Brakes: Discs - Hitco/Brembo carbon, Pads - Hitco/Brembo carbon
Cooling system: Secan Minardi-designed water and oil radiators
Cockpit instrumentation: Magneti Marelli in steering wheel
Seat belts: TRW Sabelt six-point harness
Steering wheel: Personal
Extinguisher system SPA Wheels OZ forged magnesium (13.0 x 12.0in front/13.0 x 13.7in rear)
Tyres: Bridgestone
Fuel cell: ATL, FT5 specifications

Engine
Cosworth Racing CR-3
Displacement: 2998 cc
V-angle: 72 degree
Valve train: Pneumatic
Fuel management system: Magneti Marelli Step 10
Ignition system: Magneti Marelli
Spark plugs: Champion
Cooling system: Minardi-designed water and oil radiators

Materials
Engine block/heads: aluminum
Crankshaft: steel
Pistons: aluminum alloy
Connecting rods: titanium

Dimensions
Length: 569 mm
Width: 490mm
Height: 490mm
Weight: 105kg

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