Renault’s Nick Heidfeld eying maiden win, criticises ‘Piano-like’ steering wheel – Formula 1 news
Nick Heidfeld, who was called at the last minute to replace injured Robert Kubica in the Renault team, has said that if the car is well prepared, he can win his first grand prix in Melbourne.
He further added that the team is well prepared for the season. Talking about the new rules and the buttons on the steering, he said that the new steering is like a ‘Piano’ keyboard.
Nick Heidfeld, who will be featuring in his 12th Formula 1 season, has not yet won a single grand prix. He has more than 170 race starts to his name with different teams. This will be his first season with Renault after he was selected to replace
Robert Kubica who had an accident and was ruled out of the 2011 season.
He said, “Naturally it would be beautiful, it will happen if the car is good enough. The test phase was good for us, but we don't known whether it has been enough to win races.”
Talking about the new rules, Heidfeld was not so impressed and said that the drivers work in the cockpit will be doubled. He said that firstly the new steering wheel looks like a ‘Playing-Piano’ in which too many buttons are installed.
Heidfeld showed his concern and said that the drivers will have to be very careful using the buttons as they would have to put their eyes off the track. Secondly, he said that drivers will have to be careful about the use of the systems as the red light
from the officials will arm the system.
As a former Chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, Heidfeld said that the FIA has been informed of the possible danger to the drivers.
On the other hand, Nico Rosberg of Mercedes said, “We have to keep in mind that, under certain circumstances, there is a safety risk in principle, but I think that the adjustable rear wing for overtaking is right.”
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