When Virgin Racing launched three years ago it was as the first “all-CFD” team
on the grid, with the car designed virtually using Computational Fluid
Dynamics.
“I think it is our first real baby,” Booth told Autosport. “In
my ‘400 years’ of motorsport I’ve learned to not have too many expectations.
“Technically it is a massive step forward, performance-wise we will just
have to wait and see. “We shouldn’t put our expectations against Red
Bull, who have 500 people and four times the budget.
“It’s same as I have said for three years. The target is to get into Q2
on merit, and then you can really start playing from there – and going for
points.”
Booth said that Symonds’ presence at races – Renault’s former Executive
Director of Engineering had hitherto only been allowed to work in a
consultancy role for the team, away from the racetrack, following his role
in the ‘Crashgate’ scandal – should make a difference.
“We have our technical director at the circuit now which is a good step
for us as well,” said Booth.
“It is three years since Pat has been at a circuit but it is like he has
never been away.”
Booth would not give any clues as to the identity of the team’s second driver,
with Luiz Razia the favourite to join 21-year-old GP2 graduate Chilton.