Williams content despite troubled tests

Snow and rain at the start of the week meant that much of the test was wasted. Even when the weather improved, mechanical problems meant that mileage was still restricted.

'It's difficult to complete a scheduled programme with rain and two days of snow,' admitted BMW's Dr Werner Laurenz. 'We have experienced several electronic problems which are normal given the infancy of this new package.

'Nonetheless, we managed more than 100 laps on the third day and have gathered some very valuable feedback.'

Team technical director Patrick Head said that there was more to come from the new car.

'After a slow start we gained useful information from the last two days. We are encouraged by the early feedback from the FW22 and we expect to add performance before Melbourne.'

The new Williams trailed the Saubers and McLarens for most of the week long Barcelona test, but Ralf Schumacher's lap of 1m22.27s on Friday put him second only to McLaren test driver Olivier Panis.

'While it is a little early to be judging the new package, my initial impressions are good,' said the German.

'There is still work to be done, but as we continue with our testing we will improve in all areas.'

Williams' next test will begin on 8th February as they travel to Kyalami in South Africa to evaluate the car in hotter conditions.