Force India hopes to beat Red Bull thanks to the new VJM08 B
The Silverstone Grand Prix will be a turning point for Force India, which is introducing the B version of its car on this occasion. The initial signs are more than positive: Bob Fernley, the team director, even hopes to become the fourth force on the grid.
Since the Monaco Grand Prix, Force India has been slowly evolving a VJM08 that is still far too similar to its predecessor. Indeed, due to a lack of funds, the team has had to significantly slow down the development pace of its new car, which has inevitably hindered its performance.
At Silverstone this weekend, Force India will nevertheless bring major upgrades that will officially introduce the VJM08 B. Tested in Austria during private testing, the B version has already generated enthusiasm from Esteban Ocon and Sergio Perez. Bob Fernley, the team director, is also very optimistic: Fourth is our next goal. Of course, we need to be realistic, so let’s wait and see what happens at Silverstone. But if the car delivers the expected level of performance, then we are full of hope.
Version B should benefit from the recent restructuring carried out within the Indian team, whose base is nevertheless only a few kilometers from the Silverstone circuit: « I am very proud of the team, they have done an incredible job. We are at the end of a six-month program, starting with the rebuilding of the aero department with a new philosophy and a new wind tunnel at the same time. The new car will be the first test of these changes. »
So far, Force India has done better than just damage control with a very satisfying fifth place in the constructors’ championship, 24 points behind Red Bull. Bob Fernley explains the reasons for such performances: “We have delivered phenomenal reliability. It came from the factory and the car design. And then, we had excellent and aggressive strategies, along with two great drivers who took advantage of every opportunity offered to them.”
The Mercedes engine, at work in Austria where both cars scored points (a first this season), also allowed Force India to rank ahead of Lotus, Sauber, or Toro Rosso. But now, the team could also benefit from a chassis that could ensure its continued regular progression in the hierarchy.
