After sampling the BMW Sauber in dry conditions for the first time at last week’s Bahrain test, Nick Heidfeld believes overtaking should be easier during the 2009 season, thanks to this year’s revised aerodynamic regulations.
“I finally got a chance to actually tail another car. I have the impression that the new aerodynamics are going to make it easier to close in on the driver ahead, just as we had hoped,” the German said. “This should certainly make overtaking a lot simpler. I’m hoping that this suspicion will be confirmed over the weeks to come.”
Nevertheless he says he has been pleased with the responsiveness of the new car to set-up changes and reckons BMW is making good progress.
“We managed to clock up a total of almost 3,700km in Bahrain and, in the process, to gather some vital data,” he said.
“On the days when it was my turn to sit behind the wheel, I had perfect weather conditions and we were spared the sandstorms that had been blowing up the week before we arrived.
“We had some minor mechanical problems that cost us some time that would have been better spent out on the track.”
Heidfeld, who will resume testing with BMW at Jerez next week, added that he was enjoying the pre-season programme more than ever due to the challenges posed by the all-new cars.
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