Toro Rosso technical chief insists 2016 car ran at Barcelona test
James Key clarified that Toro Rosso’s Barcelona test car was the 2016 STR11, not a modified 2015 chassis, despite a late switch to Ferrari power.
James Key moved to quash speculation that Toro Rosso ran a 2015-based car at the opening Formula One pre-season test in Barcelona, confirming on Thursday that the STR11 seen on track was the team’s 2016 chassis.
Reports had circulated after Carlos Sainz suggested the Faenza squad’s rush to integrate new Ferrari engines for 2016 had forced it to field an interim car built around the previous year’s STR10. Sainz was quoted saying the full STR11 would only appear at the next test, complete with final race livery.
Key, Toro Rosso’s technical director, told Spanish sports daily Marca that the car running laps at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya was “definitely this year’s car”. He acknowledged that two components on the STR11 were carried over from 2015, with replacements due for the following test, but stressed the rest of the car was new for 2016.
Late Ferrari engine switch shapes STR11 development
Toro Rosso’s late decision to switch from Renault to Ferrari power units for 2016 compressed the team’s development timeline. Key admitted the STR11 was heavily based on the successful 2015 chassis, as the team sought to retain proven elements while adapting to the new engine installation.
Despite the continuity in chassis design, the packaging required for the Ferrari engine meant some compromises. The car’s weight reportedly increased, prompting the team to ask Sainz to lose weight over the winter. Sainz’s preparation included training with triathlete Mario Mola, as detailed inthis related article.
Next steps for Toro Rosso’s 2016 campaign
The team planned to introduce the completed STR11, including its final specification parts and race livery, at the second Barcelona test. Key’s comments made clear that the car’s development was on schedule despite the compressed build and engine integration programme.
