BAR launch: Clean sheet for new car

British American Racing's engineering director Malcolm Oastler has said he tore up the designs for last year's BAR 003 and started afresh with its 2002 challenger, the 004

Although visibly similar to last year's design, the Australian says the car is completely different under the skin.

"We did the best we could with the 003," said Oastler. "But you get to a point where you have to tear up the drawings and start again. This car is the start of that. It was important to be ready now for when the test ban lifts after Christmas. We've got to hit the ground running."

Olivier Panis is scheduled to lap the BAR car park this afternoon as the new car turns a wheel for the first time.

Honda's Toru Ogawa says the all-new RA002E engine will give BAR all the power it needs to challenge for honours next season.

"It's a brand new design, lighter and more powerful with a lower centre of gravity," he said. "We now have a clear long-term commitment to the team and we are aiming to give them the best engine in F1."