With wintery conditions surrounding Italy’s Vallelunga circuit, the first pre-season test for the 2018 Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters campaign saw two-time champion Marco Wittmann gain valuable mileage behind the wheel of the new M4 DTM, which was used to test the new regulations enforced by the series.
Over two days, the 28-year-old was able to gauge the changes made by the DTM commission towards the 20-race calendar becoming more action-packed, as well as finding out how he needed to adapt.
“My first impression is that, despite the significantly reduced downforce, the car still has a good balance,” admitted Wittmann, who was impressed with not only the new car, but the new livery he will use for the 2018 racing season.
“However, the challenge has increased, especially in the wet conditions we experienced at the test. We will learn more about the behaviour of the new package at Hockenheim with different track and weather conditions.”
“It is always something special and exciting see a new package take to the track for the first time, and to see how it behaves,” said BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt, who is also a fan of the new livery inspired by BMW’s iconic colours.
“The Vallelunga test was an important first assessment for us, even if the conditions were not ideal. The findings we have made in Italy will form a good basis for our engineers and teams, both as they continue to prepare for, and during the season.”
Marquardt also stated that it was also welcome practice for the Munich outfit to get back to work regarding procedures used in a racing simulation.
The final pre-season test before the opening round in May will take place at Hockenheim between April 9th and 12th, where all drivers will get to test before the season gets underway.