Toyota unveil new F1 car
2007-01-12 18:03
Cologne - Toyota unveiled the car they believe can finally bring them a coveted first grand prix win after five barren years in Formula One on Friday.
The giant Japanese constructor are pinning their faith on the all new TF107 and their team of drivers Jarno Trulli and Ralf Schumacher and new test driver Franck Montagny.
After a disappointing 2006 season with only Schumacher managing to grab a podium finish in Melbourne hopes are high 2007 could at last bring them a long-waited debut success.
"Our fundamental target this year is to get the first victory," said Toyota boss Tsutomu Tomita.
President John Howett, reviewing last year's showing, commented: "Looking at race pace and qualifying pace, we were closing the gap on Renault towards the end of the season, but Ferrari were still in front.
"Although the results didn't show it, I think we are now capable of running with the top teams in terms of speed."
Howett added: "It's too early to be talking about the championship but we are targeting a first win.
"The team are hungry for success."
The 2006 campaign was dogged by reliability problems but Montagny said a bright year lies ahead for his new team.
"I reckon this year we're going to take off," said the former Renault test driver.
Toyota's Cologne factory has left the Frenchman impressed.
"It's the best I've ever seen. The people here are so motivated, it can only work.'
Toyota's technical director Pascal Vasselon said the car unveiled Friday would be further developed in the run up to the season-opener in Melbourne.
"A new package of aerodynamics will be introduced before Melbourne, it's not that we're being secretive but just that we want to wait until as long as possible to carry out further testing in the wind tunnel."