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F1: BMW to be next to track-test KERS system

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Khatir Soltani
From GMM

Formula 1 team BMW-Sauber is to become the next formula one team to run a KERS energy-recovery system, to be allowed in formula one from 2009, on a test circuit.

We reported in May that Honda was the first team to track-test the technology in an initially basic form.

"In the middle of May we did a few laps at Silverstone, to check the function of our KERS system," team boss Ross Brawn confirmed.

The German magazine Auto Motor und Sport reports that BMW will conduct its own initial trial run in the middle of July on the German marque's proving ground at Mirimas in southern France.

Then, at the Jerez test following the forthcoming German grand prix, a KERS system is expected to be fitted to the team's 2008 car, the F1.08.

Mercedes-Benz competition director Norbert Haug, meanwhile, reveals that McLaren has no immediate plans to follow suit, explaining that the team wants to spend more time developing the technology in the factory.

It is therefore expected that a KERS system will not be fitted to a McLaren at a test circuit until September; a policy that may also be adopted by key championship rival Ferrari.

Renault, meanwhile, is not expected to test KERS technology until next winter.
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 8 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada