Mercedes-Benz, the German automobile manufacturer, recently showcased its new W03 2012 car in Barcelona, Spain. After a disappointing run in 2011, Mercedes-Benz is hoping to outperform the top F1 teams, namely Red Bull, McLaren and Ferrari, with this new model. The German Formula 1 team achieved fourth place in the 2011 constructors’ championship. Mercedes’ F1 drivers, Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher were standing at seventh and eighth place respectively. In November 2011, Mercedes decided to bring in Aldo Costa, Geoff Willis and Bob Bell to its technical team.
Ross James Brawn, Mercedes team principal, was present during the showcasing of the new W03. He commented, "The F1 W03 is a car I believe, and hope, our team can be proud of, and which will deliver the on-track results that everybody has worked so hard to achieve. Notwithstanding the distinctive nose design, which is certainly an acquired taste, the car is an elegant interpretation of the current regulations, and a clear step forward over its predecessor in terms of detail design and sophistication.”
Brawn added that Mercedes team introduced a very impressive car in 2011. However, the car did not deliver the desired results, though the experience that the team gained through it did assist the team to bring in more advanced model for 2012. The experience that the team gained through last year's model is evident in the design of W03. He commented that 2012 model by Mercedes-Benz represents the excellent job done by its Silver Arrows Works team in terms of on-tack performance.
The new W03 model has already been tested at Jerez in February 2012. According to reports, the new car by Mercedes-Benz will be tested for the second time in Australia, just a few days ahead of the new F1 season, which begins on 18th March 2012.
Mercedes’ driver Nico Rosberg stated that he is positive that modifications made by the team in the 2012 car will assist the team in improving its rankings in the upcoming season. He commented, "It looks good, and is very nicely packaged under the bodywork. All the parts are in harmony, which reflects how well the different departments of our team are working together.”
Michael Schumacher, 43-year-old 7-times world champion, has not been able to impress F1 fans since his return two years ago. However, the German driver is confident of gaining advantage with the new Mercedes W02 2012 model. Schumacher stated "Already last week, when we drove the car for the very first time, it instantly gave us good feedback and sensations.” He added that he is looking forward to drive the new car in the 2012 F1 season.
