Wednesday 1 February 2012

McLaren launch MP4/27 as they bid for 2012 glory

McLaren are the second team of 2012 to launch their car.

McLaren have launched their challenger for the 2012 season, with last year's runners-up unveiling the MP4/27 at the McLaren technology centre this morning.

McLaren's challenger for the season ahead
McLaren say the new car features narrower rear bodywork, in the bid to improve airflow at the rear of the car. The revised cooling system re-directs air to the gearbox oil-cooler. The distinctive U-shaped sidepods of the 2011 car are gone, which McLaren say is a consequence of the FIA’s new exhaust regulations. Team Principal Martin Whitmarsh said of the MP4/27 "Having finished second in the constructors’ championship for the past two seasons, we’re determined to mount a sustained, hard challenge for both world titles. Our engineering team continues to develop and grow: while the key names who head the department are well known – Tim Goss, Paddy Lowe and Neil Oatley – it’s the strength in depth within the department that continually impresses. I’m extremely proud of our efforts to invest in and recruit young graduate engineers and to develop and school them in the ways of Formula 1.”

Test driver Oliver Turvey will be the first to drive the car, at Jerez testing next week. Ferrari and Force India will launch on Friday.

2011 Season Review: McLaren

Keep with my blog for all the opinions, launches and testing updates throughout the winter, as we count down to the Australian Grand Prix.

1 comment: