BAR's FTT system returns
BAR has re-introduced a modified version of its Front Torque Transfer system for this weekend's Italian Grand Prix - after its first attempt to race the system was scuppered when it was banned at Hockenheim
Although the team lost a subsequent appeal against the German Grand Prix decision, it is understood that the team has modified the system to fall within the regulations and put it to good use during opening practice to help Jenson Button set the fourth fastest time.
It is therefore likely that BAR has modified the system to ensure that there is no external power source assisting the device - although the team is refusing to explain in detail exactly what it has done.
The FTT system, which is similar in concept to that which Benetton ran for a short time in 1999, is designed to shift the torque loads between wheels during braking to prevent tyres locking up. This provides a benefit in terms of overall lap time and, more importantly, improves consistency during long race runs.
Team boss David Richards, who met with FIA president Max Mosley on Friday morning, said about the re-introduction of FTT: "There is a clear strategy about it and it has gone according to plan.
"I was questioned by rival teams about why we did it at the time, and then they said why are you fighting the case in Paris at the technical tribunal? Seeing it back on the car here, and seeing the performance of the car, I think people now realise.
"I am sure the other teams will be very inquisitive, but the technical tribunal clarified the issues - what was legal and what wasn't legal - and we have a perfectly legal car this time."
Jenson Button said about the FTT system: "It is working fine and exactly where it is supposed to. I think it is a positive step for us."
The original FTT system tried out in Germany was banned on the grounds that it broke article 11.1.3 of F1's technical regulations which stated: "Any powered device which is capable of altering the configuration or affecting the performance of any part of the brake system is forbidden."
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