Radical Aero Package for BMW F1.09 in Spain

As promised by BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen, BMW Sauber have certainly upped their game ahead of their European debut, at Barcelona. If the F1.09's on-track performances are yet to suggest a new dimension in the team's strategy for this season, its looks have certainly underwent a major upgrade as compared to the first 4 rounds of the 2009 calendar.

The new car was spotted yesterday at Circuit de Catalonia with a completely new front fascia and rear wing. The main element of the rear wing has been radically changed, while the nose of the car underwent a facelift and was notably straightened.

The changes are part of BMW's aerodynamic package for the European rounds this season, as the Hinwil based team did not bring any revisions to the initial parts of the F1.09 during the first 4 events.

In addition, Theissen also announced his team will renounce the Kinetic Energy Recovery System – until now, visible through the “Active Hybrid” rear wing signage of the F1.09 – for the upcoming 2 events, in Spain and Monaco. Replacing the aforementioned signature on the rear wing is now the word “Connect”.

The rear wing has also become a marketing element for BMW in Spain, as its endplates are advertising for the upcoming “Terminator Salvation” movie.

Both Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld will debut the heavily revised BMW F1.09 on the Catalonian track later today, during the first official practice session.