Wednesday, December 01, 2010

GreenBkk Formula 1 | Hamilton buoyed by virtual test

Hamilton buoyed by virtual test

Lewis Hamilton spent a positive day at McLaren's Woking HQ © Getty Images

Lewis Hamilton says he is already impressed with the early development steps made by his McLaren team on next year's MP4-26 machine although it has yet to hit the circuit.

Hamilton did, however, spend a day in the team's simulator at the Woking factory on Monday conducting virtual tests of the car. Of particular interest next season is the reintroduction of the KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) device and adjustable rear wings to aid overtaking.

"Lots of neat ideas and improvements," reported Hamilton on his Twitter feed. "First time driving the new car and I was happy. KERS and rear wing is tricky but felt right at home with it. Our KERS is the best. It shud (should) deliver."

Despite McLaren's frustrating 2009 campaign, their car was generally recognised as having the most effective system.

Hamilton's team-mate Jenson Button has never before used the device but said during a recent Johnnie Walker sponsor webchat that he expected McLaren to be strong in that area because he was the victim of some flying starts off the grid from Hamilton whilst driving for Brawn GP in 2009.

"I've never driven with KERS before but this team used KERS last year and used it well," said Button. "I know because they kept coming by me at the start!

"They have so much experience in that area that I think we'll have an advantage, as will Mercedes and Force India who use Mercedes engines. We'll have an advantage on Red Bull and Ferrari I think."

Credit: ESPN F1 (espn.com)


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