New diffuser debut for BMW in Spain

BMW Sauber team principal Mario Theissen has admitted that it is unlikely that a revised aero package, to include its own take on the controversial 'double decker' diffuser, will appear on the F1.09 before the Spanish Grand Prix next month – and even then its use cannot be guaranteed.

"There is no doubt that we definitely have to improve as quickly as possible," he wrote on the team's official website, "Apart from that, there isn't much to be said about the Chinese Grand Prix.

"The weekend had not even begun when the course of the future was set. When it came to the disputed 'double-decker' diffusers, the FIA appeal court reached a different conclusion to that of 70 per cent of the teams, who were of the opinion that this design doesn't comply with the 2009 regulations. Obviously this decision is a disappointment for us, but we will accept it nevertheless. At least how the regulations have to be implemented in this area has finally been clarified."

"It goes without saying that we began working on the design of a new diffuser several weeks ago," he continued, "The diffuser is the rear end of an entire aero package beneath the car. The concept is complex and only works if all the components up-stream – in the front area of the car – also are fully integrated.

“At the end of the day, it takes a far bigger effort than just copying a component and fitting it to the car. To channel the airflow beneath the car to the rear in a way that a double decker design diffuser really produces more downforce, the entire aero package – from the front wing to the rear – has to be fully revised."

“Our staff in Munich and Hinwil are working flat-out [and], as planned, we will travel to Barcelona with a new aero package," he confirmed, "Nonetheless, it has not yet been determined to what extent a modified diffuser solutions will be integrated there."