Force India in continuity with the VJM06

Force India unveiled the new VJM06 at Silverstone. By the team’s own admission, this car takes the basics of the previous car from 2012. the biggest visible change is at the level of the nose which adopts the classic shape preferred so far by almost all teams, the Lotus E21 being an exception. The stability of the technical regulations and the new engines which will arrive in 2014 force the teams to distribute their work tasks and other developments are expected on the cars before the start of the season. “The VJM06 doesn’t really look any different compared to its older sibling, but we worked on every detail under the body to optimize performance.”, explains Team Principal Vijay Mallya. “I followed the development closely and am proud of the result. The objective is to consolidate our results achieved at the end of last year and get off to a good start to the season. »

However, the performance of the Indian team will partly depend on its line-up. However, Force India has still not announced its second driver for next season. Jules Bianchi and Adrian Sutil are still mentioned but the Frenchman was present this morning at the Ferrari presentation at Maranello. Furthermore, Bob Fernley, the team's deputy director, told journalist Adam Cooper that it would be development driver James Rossiter who would share the wheel of the VJM06 with the Scot in Jérez. The announcement should be made after the first tests on the Spanish circuit.

In the meantime, Paul di Resta took the wheel of the new car on the wet Silverstone track to perform a roadshow in front of the press. The 2010 champion of DTM is betting a lot on this season to try to get a seat in a top team later. “Seeing the car built and assembled is a special feeling. I followed its progress in the wind tunnel and it seems very impressive, aggressive and fast. Now I can't wait to compare her to our opponents. I feel rested after the winter break and I can't wait to get back to business. »

Click on this link to access the Force India VJM06 photo gallery. Paul di Resta's helmet is visible here.