BMW Move to Solve Cooling Issues

Heidfeld came off worst when his engine, taking part in its second race, blew-up in the race - but even before that incident both drivers had to limit their revs because of the risk of over-heating caused by the desert climate.

And with further hot races set for later in the year, especially the Turkish Grand Prix scheduled for August, BMW know they must get on top of the issue.

BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen said: "Even with the car's maximum cooling configuration, we were running at thermal limits in Bahrain and therefore could not exploit our engines to their full revs.

"That contributed to our drivers not being able to attack, or, in the case of Mark, not being able to properly defend his position during the closing stages of the race.

"The Turkish Grand Prix weekend, held in August, could force us to cope with similarly extreme conditions. By this point in time we must increase the cooling inlets to provide the engine with sufficient fresh air. "

Williams are undertaking a major development programme for their FW27 after their pre-season preparations were marred by problems with their new wind tunnel.