HRT hopes to use its 2012 single-seater in Barcelona

The HRT team admits being behind in the design of its 2012 car compared to its rivals, but the Spanish team believes it can launch its new car before the first race of the season in Melbourne. The goal is even for it to be tested for the first time during the pre-season tests in Barcelona, despite critical delays.

« The rumors suggesting that we will participate in the first Grand Prix with the 2011 car are not true. The goal is to be at the second wave of (pre-season) testing with the new car, » explained an HRT team spokesperson, quoted by BBC Sport.

The team should therefore use its 2011 car for the first tests in Jerez, which will take place from February 7 to 10. This will allow Pedro de la Rosa and his teammate, if known by then, to gain some track time.

The 2012 single-seater of the HRT team is still in the design and assembly phase, and it is highly likely that it has not yet successfully passed the FIA crash tests. But even though things will probably take time to come together, even more so with the recent changes – change of owner and team principal – Hispania is confident it can continue its development.

There has been, and there still is, a lot of work to do but, even if we may have some difficulties at the beginning, the structure being put in place is much more solid, reliable, and committed. Hopefully, we will be able to prove this to everyone soon and change the perception of the team, the spokesperson stated.