LONDON, England - Valtteri Bottas has revealed that Williams' 2013 car will
not feature a 'stepped' nose.
Following the public's reaction to the aesthetics of 2013's cars, the FIA
has allowed teams to install a "structurally irrelevant" laminate
over the step for 2013.
The 'modesty panel', however, is not mandatory, and that's raised doubts about
whether teams will take up the option.
Bottas, Williams' rookie driver for 2013, told Finnish broadcaster MTV3:
"As far as looks, the 2013 car is pretty much as it was in 2012. With the new rules, the step nose is straightened. That is the biggest
difference in appearance.
The new car is a development version of that of 2012. There are certain
improvements in aerodynamics. We have tried to focus on getting more traction in corners."
He didn't know whether he or Pastor Maldonado, Williams' continuing
Venezuelan driver, would give the FW35 its track debut at Jerez early in February 2013.
"Pastor and I will share all the test dates, so six days each,"
the Finn said.