Sauber pursuing new design concept for 2016 Formula 1 car
Sauber is going aggressive with the design of its 2016 Formula 1 car because it needs a different concept to move further up the field, according to Felipe Nasr
The Swiss team failed to score a single point in 2014 but enjoyed a more competitive campaign this term as it scored 36 points to finish eighth in F1's constructors' championship.
However, after two double-points finishes in the first three races, it failed to recapture that form and ended the year with a tally nearly half that of Toro Rosso one place ahead.
"The car we had this year and last year looked pretty much the same on the concept side but next year we are being a little bit more aggressive," said Nasr, who scored three-times the number of points of team-mate Marcus Ericsson.
"The concept looks very different.
"We know the areas we have to improve and we have to give it a try. We need to try something."
Former Red Bull and Caterham technical director Mark Smith started with the outfit in July and according to Nasr was keen to change Sauber's development path.
"He was the guy who straight away wanted to apply this approach," said Nasr.
"We as drivers and as a team all gave feedback as to where the car had to be improved and he has given a lot of directions to follow with the car development.
"If you look at the other cars a lot of people have different concepts but if we keep developing the one we have, it's little steps.
"That's why we're taking this approach for 2016."
When asked if he felt it was a risk, especially given the challenge that could be provided from Manor and its improved package with Mercedes and the incoming Haas outfit with its Ferrari partnership, Nasr said: "I don't think so.
"I am quite confident we all know which areas we have to take it and for that it demands a different concept."
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