BMW Sauber rolled out its 2009 car in Valencia on Tuesday. The team hope the new vehicle will deliver on the target of winning the Formula One championship.
Drivers Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld unveiled the F1.09 at the Ricardo Tormo circuit and took it out for its maiden laps. The car closely resembles several of this year's new class, sporting a stocky front and slim rear. The modifications are expected to create greater downforce, double engine life and change aerodynamics to allow for more overtaking. With the new car put into use, the BMW team believe top spot is now a realistic ambition.
Mario Theissen, BMW Motosport Director, said, "We wanted to be in the points in our first year, 2006, to be on the podium in '07, to win our first race in '08 and then to fight for the championship from 2009 onwards. We have achieved all the targets in the previous years, so it is clear what we have to go for this year."
Robert Kubica, BMW Sauber F1 Driver, said, "Last year we were leading the drivers' championship after several races, we were also leading the constructors' championship. So let's try to repeat it and do better in the end of the season - the second half - but as I said it's quite early to say it but of course the goal is to fight for the championship."
