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HRT F1 Buys Toyota F1 Team - Report

Hispania Racing F1 Team has reportedly bought the team formerly owned by Toyota in Formula One. According to a media report from Germany's Auto Motor und Sport, citing reliable sources, it seems that Jose Ramon Carabante's organization has purchased “the expertise, equipment and facilities” of the ex-Toyota F1 Racing team, based in Cologne, Germany.

Of course, no official statement was released on the matter, and the German publication does little to provide us with more information on the topic. However, the news doesn't come as a surprise to anyone, as several reports in recent months have hinted that HRT's team boss Colin Kolles is in advanced discussions with the Japanese carmaker to buy the Cologne team.

Consequently, HRT's car next season will be based on the unraced Toyota TF110. According to reports, this is a good explanation why Toyota only gave Pirelli their 2009-spec car for tire testing these past few months, leaving the TF110 untouched, only for HRT to use this winter.

In addition to securing the car, base and technology for the 2010 season, HRT are also on the verge of purchasing the hydraulic systems and gearboxes from Williams F1 team. In the meantime, they are expected to extend their partnership with engine supplier Cosworth, despite the fact that some reports suggest some lateness in payments towards the British company.

Car, base, powertrain, hydraulic system, engine... what's left to do for the 2011 campaign of F1 is to name a couple of drivers and secure a decent budget for developments. Those questions are likely to receive an answer somewhere this winter, once the team will start its official preparation for the upcoming season.
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