Mercedes drivers Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg launched the new F1 W03 car, their 2012 F1 challenger, in Barcelona. The launch of the car precedes the start of the pre-season testing round two. Over the next two weeks, the car will complete eight days of testing in Barcelona. Mercedes had started work on this car as early as May 2011 and as many as 4500 parts have been used. The car integrates the new FIA defined stepped nose and the positioning of exhausts. In the first week of January, the necessary crash tests were conducted on this car.
Michael Schumacher commented, “I have done quite a few roll-outs and launches of new cars, but even after all these years, I must say it still feels special. Days like this are precious moments, as they are always filled with hope and anticipation. Already last week, when we were driving the F1 W03 for the very first time, it instantly gave us good feedback and sensations.”
Team driver Nico said, “"We have had a good start to our 2012 testing programme, and it was a great feeling to drive the first laps in the new F1 W03. The car 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.”
Along with the 2012 Silver Arrow, Mercedes also unveiled the 537PS SL63 AMG car.
Michael Schumacher commented, “I have done quite a few roll-outs and launches of new cars, but even after all these years, I must say it still feels special. Days like this are precious moments, as they are always filled with hope and anticipation. Already last week, when we were driving the F1 W03 for the very first time, it instantly gave us good feedback and sensations.”
Team driver Nico said, “"We have had a good start to our 2012 testing programme, and it was a great feeling to drive the first laps in the new F1 W03. The car 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.”
Along with the 2012 Silver Arrow, Mercedes also unveiled the 537PS SL63 AMG car.
