Marco Wittmann happy with the balance of the new BMW M4 at Vallelunga

Marco Wittmann was on duty for BMW Motorsport at Vallelunga for the first DTM preseason tests this year, taking charge of the 2018-spec M4 DTM’s maiden run on track.

The tests were disrupted because of snow and icy conditions on Thursday, permitting only a limited roll out, while testing was disrupted again on Saturday due to the rain.

Wittmann tested the M4 DTM which has been modified to the new technical regulations, with significant downforce reduction and a simplification of the number of aero flicks around the car.

“My first impression is that, despite the significantly reduced downforce, the car still has a good balance,” said Wittmann. “However, the challenge has increased, especially in the wet conditions we experienced at the test.”

“It is always something special and exciting see a new package take to the track for the first time, and to see how it behaves,” said BMW Motorsport director Jens Marquardt.

“The Vallelunga test was an important first assessment for us, even if the conditions were not ideal. The findings we have made in Italy will form a good basis for our engineers and teams, both as they continue to prepare for, and during the season.”