Ferrari’s 2012 car has now passed the mandatory FIA crash tests at the second attempt, according to multiple sources.
It emerged last week that the new car, codenamed 663, was due to undergo the tests at the CSI technical facility in Bollate, near Milan, last week after they were initially failed. Sources said the monocoque, reportedly “much lighter” than its 2011 predecessor, had been reinforced with additional carbon sheets for the subsequent side-impact test.
Spanish reports including in the sports newspapers AS and Marca, citing Italian sources, said the second tests were passed. The reinforcements made to the car will have an “almost negligible” affect on laptimes, the sources said.
Given the tweaked regulations for 2012, the news clears the way for the new Ferrari to make its official track debut early next month.
Marca newspaper said there are unconfirmed rumours the 2012 Ferrari features a “revolutionary” design with a “dolphin nose”.
It will reportedly be driven on the opening day of the official Jerez test by Felipe Massa, before Fernando Alonso takes over for days three and four. Ferrari’s drivers will also equally share track time at the subsequent Barcelona test, added Marca.
It has also emerged that Sauber’s similarly Ferrari-powered 2012 car, the C31, has passed its final FIA crash test for the rear structure.
The car will be unveiled at Jerez on the eve of the opening test.
And it is reported in the French press that Marussia’s technical consultant Pat Symonds has said the former Virgin team’s 2012 car will not be ready for the opening test of the pre-season at Jerez.
Source:GMM
