Kamui Kobayashi has high expectations from Bahrain tests

Kamui Kobayashi, like most drivers driving single-seaters equipped with the V6 engine Renault, was unable to complete a successful program during the Jerez tests at the end of January. In all teams, we want to reassure (see here at Red Bull) and at Renault, we estimate that we have made progress, even if there is delay on the initial schedule. (see Rémi Taffin’s statements, director of track operations at Renault Sport F1).

“I think the whole team will be happy if we simulate a race. » Kobayashi explains to Autosprint. “Already in Jerez we did several laps and it was positive. But technicians hunger for miles to be able to understand and solve all the teething problems. We were blocked by electrical problems of the Power Unit, but we are talking about the first test of a new technical cycle. I am confident that Renault will bring an improved technical package to Bahrain and I hope that we will be able to carry out all the planned tests. Given the problems encountered, it would be better to do as many laps as possible, more than anything else to make the engineers' work easier. This goes for everyone, we adapt. We can't complain because we did more laps than Red Bull. Our cooling system seems fine. We will see what we will learn from Bahrain for the future development of the car. »

Nippon also returned to the particular aesthetics of the 2014 single-seaters. “I like it but… when I’m inside the cockpit. Aesthetically, I haven't seen any nice cars. When I'm on the track I can't see the nose so I don't have any problems. » quips the former Sauber driver.

Caterham, like the entire F1 field, will meet in Bahrain from February 19 for the next pre-season testing session.

Also find our F1 Guide, available in digital version from February 17 at 22 p.m., and February 19 on newsstands.