The Sauber team described day two of the first pre-season test in Valencia as “rather difficult”, with new rookie driver Sergio Perez covering only 42 laps in the C30.
Reliability problems curtailed the track time and the team have technical issues to resolve overnight before Perez returns to the car tomorrow.
“In the morning Sergio started off for his first time in the car,” said technical director James Key, explaining how Sauber approached the second day of the test. “The first seven runs were devoted to aerodynamic checks and [consistent] speed running.
“We then had some issues with the rear bodywork of the car, which needed time to be fixed. Then unfortunately we suffered a power train issue early in the afternoon, the reason for which we are trying to trace. It was a difficult day compared to yesterday, and it is a shame Sergio wasn't able to get in more laps.
“We didn't do any performance or set up running. But it is only day two of the first test, and that is how winter testing can be. That is simply the nature of early testing. We will work hard tonight to resolve the issues and plan a full programme for tomorrow.”
Perez said that he was pleased with his chance to try the new Sauber for the first time today, but hopes for trouble-free running tomorrow. “It was a difficult day with not much running and we obviously could not complete our programme,” said the Mexican. “But for me it was still good to get my first laps in the new car, and I am beginning to feel confident with it. I'm looking forward to tomorrow and hope we can do a lot of running with proper set up work.”
