Sauber launches new C34 with new livery

Sauber becomes the latest team to launch its 2015 championship contender, the C34 ahead of the first Winter Test in Jerez. The car now features a new livery: a striking blue colour as opposed to black last year. In just terms of looks, the car does win a few good points!

Along with a new livery, the team also has two new drivers this year: Marcus Ericsson and Felipe Nasr and the effect of both of them can easily be seen in the form of sponsors on the body of the car. Felipe Nasr of Brazil has the backing from Banco do Brasil which is clearly adorned on the side pods of the car.

After the Sauber team failed to win a single point last year, they are hoping for the tables to turn this year. “We were able to gain a lot of experience during the course of the 2014 season, which will have an influence on the Sauber C34,” chief designer Eric Gandelin said

Commenting on the two new drivers, team Principal Manisha Katlenborn said, “I am delighted about our two new drivers who bring a breath of fresh air. Both are young, talented and highly motivated. On their way to Formula 1 both stood out through victories in Formula BMW and Formula 3. Both then finished this career progression off in the GP2-Series. While Marcus looks back to one season in Formula One, Felipe will have his rookie year in which he comes fully prepared due to his role as test and reserve driver at Williams last year. I feel confident with regard to our drivers.”
Falling in line with the new nose regulations, the new C34 has a bigger and a wider nose and more close to the ground. This has a considerable impact on the aerodynamics of the car as the front wing and nose decide the air flow around the car.

The engineering team has focused on three main areas with the C34: performance in slow corners, weight reduction, as well as braking stability. Further parts are believed to be added before the first race in Melbourne. “We will use the time up to Melbourne to ensure we’re as competitive as possible when we line up on the grid for the season opener,” Gandelin added.

Falling in line with the previous four seasons, the new Sauber is powered by a Ferrari power unit, but there has been significant changes to the structure and architecture of the engine. “The aim has been not only to increase the power from the turbocharged engine, but above all to optimise the car’s energy recovery and energy storage capability,” the statement said. “In terms of its concept, the engine is very much comparable with last year’s, but its architecture has changed significantly, necessitating numerous adjustments to the chassis.”

The C34 will have its first run in the upcoming Jerez test starting February 1st,2015 with Marcus driving on Day 1 and 3 and Nasr taking the steering on Day 2 and 4. Whether the new car coupled with the new drivers bring any change of fortunes for Sauber remains a big question. After the failure of the last year, Sauber must capitalise on the upcoming winter test and make sure they develop a car that is able to finish in points.