Williams passes crash tests and targets Bahrain testing

James Vowles said Williams’ new Formula 1 car had passed all mandatory crash tests and would be ready for Bahrain testing. The team missed the Barcelona shakedown after development and manufacturing demands under the new regulations put pressure on its preparation schedule.

Vowles said attending Barcelona would have compromised spares, components and updates for Bahrain and the Australian opener. Williams instead planned virtual track testing to assess systems such as braking and cooling, followed by a promotional filming day with up to 200 kilometres of running.

The team principal expected six days in Bahrain to provide the necessary testing programme. He also noted that Mercedes supplied both the power unit and gearbox, allowing some learning from the manufacturer’s Barcelona work to benefit Williams.