The new aerodynamic package gets the thumbs up!

By Nick Sparkes
February 25 2006

Toyota team president John Howett is happy with the results from the new areo packaged used on the TF106 this week. Howett said that the updated package which will run at the season opener in Bahrain was a good step forward. Ralf Schumacher and Jarno Trulli have also expressed their satisfaction.

Although the times in Barcelona didn't show it, the updated TF106 has already shown clear signs of improvement, as well as working better with the teams Bridgestone tyres.

"With two weeks now before the start of the season, we are seeing the benefits of the new aerodynamic package and I have to say that we are quite pleased," said Howett. "Of course preparations never stop in Formula 1, but we feel that we are on schedule for the first race. The development of this car has been quite challenging, yet we are coming to a good reliable race package."

"We have worked really hard this winter and one of our goals is to be one of the fastest teams on Bridgestone tyres as well as to be in a position to win a race this year," he added. "Nevertheless, other teams have also been working hard; therefore, we will have to see how the season unfolds and who will be most competitive."

Both Ralf Schumacher and Jarno Trulli had a great opportunity this week to understand the new TF106, clocking up hundreds of laps as well as a few off track excursions. This has given the team plenty of data to analysis in improving the TF106 during the season.

As ever Ralf remained optimistic; "This test is giving me the chance to come to grips with the new car, to understand it better and to adapt my driving style. So far I am pleased with the new aerodynamics on the car and eager to see how things develop before the first race."

Whilst Jarno is looking forward to another solid start to the season; "We will soon be heading to the first race and I am feeling rather confident. Of course we have a few things to work on, but the car is showing that it is reliable. It would be wonderful to start the season again with good results, so that is why we are pushing hard in preparation for the season."