Accrington Web - Ferrari reveil 2007 F12007

Ferrari have unveiled the machine with which they hope to win the 2007 FIA Formula One World Championship. The F2007, which will piloted by Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen, was previewed to the press on Sunday afternoon.

The F2007, the 53rd single-seater built by Ferrari specifically to compete in the championship, has been significantly modified over its predecessor, the 248 F1. Its design was revised to accommodate new front suspension, which Ferrari say represents a “major conceptual innovation”, mainly in terms of aerodynamics.

The shape of the car’s side-pods and their openings have also been changed in conjunction with modifications to the cooling system, the radiator exits on the upper part of the bodywork, and a substantially different engine air intake.

The car has a longer wheelbase than its predecessor, while the rear is much narrower, taking advantage of a more sculpted shape to its gearbox housing, which is again made from carbon fibre. The gearbox itself, still mounted longitudinally, is fitted with an innovative quick-shift system (seven speeds plus reverse).

The rear suspension is similar to that on the 248 F1, but Ferrari are planning a significant development programme in this area as the team’s understanding of Bridgestone’s 2007 tyres increases. The car’s front and rear aerodynamic configuration is also expected to change considerably before the start of the season. The position of the rear view mirrors remains unchanged from the 2006 car, as does the exhaust system.

In accordance with new regulations that come into force this year, the basic structure of the car’s 056 engine remains the same as that homologated at the end of last season, with minor modifications to optimize it to the new 19,000 rpm rev limit. The engine continues as a load bearing member and is again mounted longitudinally.

The F2007 is just under 10 kilograms heavier than its predecessor, due the introduction of more stringent front and rear crash tests and the addition of a composite material structure to provide lateral protection to the sides of the driver’s cockpit.

The car is expected to get its test debut at Ferrari’s Fiorano circuit on Monday, with Felipe Massa at the wheel.