ROAL Motorsport complete test at Vallelunga

The front-running Italian BMW squad have just completed a two day test at the Vallelunga circuit with the BMW 320 TC with Tom Coronel behind the wheel.

The team were testing a new exhaust system developed by BMW Motorsport which has been added to the BMW 320, first run in the WTCC in 2006 and upgraded in 2011 with the new 1.6 litre turbocharged engine system.

“We were mainly focusing on the engine set up and mapping,” said Team Principal Roberto Ravaglia. “It is the first track test for the engine in 2013 specifications that features new exhaust and manifold. It has been a good test, though it is still too early to draw a conclusion on the benefits we may have from this technical development.”

Tom Coronel added:
“It’s always a good feeling to be back at the wheel of a racing car after the winter break. The car is still pretty much the same, except for this new exhaust system.”

“The main problem for us is to get down to the minimum weight, because in previous years we were never able to reach it. Now the FIA has reduced our weight from 1,160kg to 1,150kg, but we need to find a solution for having a benefit from this.”

“This is the third year for me in the team. I know them, my engineer and the car. I am satisfied and this is the first time I have the feeling that I am ready to attack. I’m not sure it’s gonna happen, but in Netherlands we have a saying: the third time is going to be right one.”