The Williams team, based in Grove, had previously only unveiled its new livery at a season launch event in New York earlier this month.
Initially planning a filming day at Silverstone this month, they opted out due to uncertainties surrounding the weather. Instead, the team chose to reveal its new FW46 challenger on the eve of official pre-season testing.
Social media posts showcased the debut of the new car, driven by Logan Sargeant, emerging from the garage at the Sakhir circuit. Under the ownership of Dorilton Capital and the leadership of team principal James Vowles, Williams is undergoing a transformation, with Vowles joining at the outset of last year.
Vowles made the decision to halt the development of the 2023 car prematurely, allowing the team to focus on the necessary advancements for the upcoming season.
Dave Robson, Williams’ head of vehicle performance, explained that while the new car may not undergo a radical visual overhaul, it is expected to deliver significant performance improvements.
Robson described the changes as a combination of evolution and innovation, with subtle yet impactful alterations anticipated, particularly in areas like front locking and overall balance. He acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead in maximizing the car’s potential during testing in Bahrain.
Reflecting on the previous season, Williams encountered difficulties with their FW45 car, which exhibited inconsistent performance, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Robson noted the team’s struggles with wind effects on the car’s balance, especially in long, sweeping corners, which posed challenges in terms of front-end grip.
Despite these challenges, Williams remains optimistic about the prospects of their new FW46 challenger and aims to build upon their seventh-place finish in the previous constructors’ championship.