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HRT launch the F111 in Barcelona - A late launch for Hispania as their 2011 car is revealed

Published by Christine

HRT officially unveil their 2011 challenger during testing
Credit: Hispania Racing

HRT have finally launched the F111 in Barcelona today, after revealing images of the new concept over a month ago. The car still features the "Your logo here" messages, with few additional sponsors, thanks to the design from Hollywood talent Daniel Simon.

HRT only confirmed their full driver lineup recently, with Tonio Liuzzi lined up to partner Narain Karthikeyan for the 2011 season. Now, with the F111 unveiled, the team can start moving forward. Unfortunately, they couldn't participate in the Barcelona testing today as they were lacking some parts, but they hope to get out on track tomorrow, in the final day.

Team principal Colin Kolles isn't too worried about the car, though, suggesting that speed is not their priority.

We know that we don't have the quickest car. That's very clear. We can discuss how to take the risk and get one tenth more on something. This is not our strategy, our strategy is to be reliable, to finish races, to have experienced drivers to take advantage of certain situations.

- Colin Kolles

He does believe the new car is significantly faster than the 2010 car, which was used in testing up until now to get a feel of the Pirelli tyres. Despite the lack of testing, the late introduction of the car, and the constant speculation over funding, Kolles is keen to point out that HRT are in control of the situation.

There is a budget that has been signed off, and we are working according to this budget. We plan to have updates, we have a development programme. So let's see how it develops.

- Colin Kolles

If the car cannot participate in testing tomorrow, it will make it's on track debut during Free Practice in Melbourne at the end of the month.

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