The new wing doesn't bring too many changes as compared to the old one, being the first aerodynamic detail on next year's car presented by the Woking-based team during the 2008 testing. The wing flaps feature a more curved design, aimed to redirect the air into the inner section between the wheels (for improved aerodynamics). De la Rosa's car was also painted in green colors around the bodywork to simulate airflow.
McLaren are the second team to showcase a few details of their aerodynamic package for 2009, following BMW's testing their 2009 car starting late November. Apart from the new wing design, McLaren are also testing their KERS unit at Jerez. Gary Paffett and Pedro de la Rosa tested the KERS-powered car during yesterday's testing, being replaced by Kovalainen for today's session.
BMW themselves took the first two days of testing on the Jerez circuit to further develop their KERS unit, while also continuing to test their aerodynamic package. Test driver Christian Klien and seat holder Nick Heidfeld ran a few laps on Tuesday with the F1.08B interim car, but only the former got to drive the one using the KERS unit. However, due to some mechanical problems with the system (when will they get it right already?!), Klien was forced to park his car off track.
Heidfeld admitted he was very happy with the improvement brought to the interim version of the F1.08 during the last few weeks, as the car now felt more stable and performed well on slick tires.
“Based on the results of the last test in Barcelona we changed the mechanical setup of the car. It looks like we are moving in the right direction,” said Heidfeld, following the first day of testing.
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