Sauber kick-started a new era on Tuesday as they unveiled the C37 – the first F1 car the Swiss team has produced since signing a multi-year technical and commercial partnership with Alfa Romeo.
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In a change to last season, the newly liveried machine - which will be piloted by a new driver line-up of veteran Marcus Ericsson and rookie Charles Leclerc - will be fitted with a latest-spec Ferrari power unit, boosting the Hinwil-based squad’s hopes of a revival.
Last year, with dated engines, Sauber managed just five points as they finished dead last in the constructors’ standings, but Technical Director Jorg Zander has much higher hopes for the new, heavily revised machine.
“It is great to finally reveal the C37 today," he said. "The 2018 challenger is the result of the hard work that everyone in the factory has put in over the last few months.
“Speaking about the C37, the car philosophy is much different to that of the C36. The aerodynamic concept has changed significantly, and the C37 has several new features in comparison to its predecessor.
“We are positive that the new concept offers us more opportunities and will help us to make improvements during the course of the season. The 2018 Ferrari engine will also give us a boost in terms of our performance. We hope that we will make progress with the C37 and that we are more competitive compared to 2017.”
“Our target ahead of 2018 is clear: We have to catch up with the field and continue improving our performance during the course of the season," added Team Principal Frederic Vasseur.
"We have put lots of energy and commitment into the development of the C37. I want to thank our partners and fans for their continuous support. The return of Alfa Romeo to Formula 1 sets another milestone in the team’s history, and I am proud that such a historical brand has chosen us for their return to the sport. We are eager to start the 2018 season as the Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team.
“I am very much looking forward to the 2018 season, and to seeing Marcus and Charles on track. We have put lots of effort and hard work into the C37 over the last few months, and it is fantastic to be launching the new car today.
"I am convinced that Marcus and Charles form the perfect driver line-up, with one being an experienced driver and one a promising rookie. Marcus is going into his fourth season with us. He is a valuable part of the team, and we benefit from his experience and precise technical feedback. As for Charles, he has proven his talent in prior categories and deserves to be on the Formula 1 grid this season.”
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