Formula 2 champion Andy Soucek has praised the progress of the F2 car following the upgrades introduced for the 2010 season. The Williams-designed machine is undergoing a development program that has meant it is already a second quicker per lap than in its debut season in 2009. Further updates are scheduled to be introduced later this month.
"The car is developing nicely and we have already made progress with the setup, extra power, electronics and the throttle map," said Soucek, who was in charge of driving the development car. "The car was already more than a second quicker than the others in Portimao and we still have a lot to come, so it is all very positive.
"I am very focused on developing the F2 car. After one year of knowing the car, the championship and all of the personnel, I was very keen to be involved.
"The program went really well. Giles Butterfield and the team is working really hard and I am enjoying working with them very much. It has been hard work but also very rewarding."
The 2010 car will have an increase in engine power, with a new turbocharger which will raise the power from 400hp to 425hp. Thanks to that, and the improved aero efficiency, Soucek reckons the car will be three seconds faster than last year.
"I am looking forward to the new aero package and the reduction in weight," he said. "We have an important program in the coming weeks and I am really excited about it. The plan is to improve the car in all areas and I will be proud to be a part of the presentation once it is finished.
"No matter where I am over the coming years, I always want to be a part of F2. I owe Jonathan Palmer and the championship a lot and I am delighted to be closely involved in F2's future."