Bar Launches 2000 Challenger.

British American Racing and new engine partner Honda today launched their combined year 2000 campaign in London.


The new BAR-Honda 002 chassis was formally unveiled by drivers Jacques Villeneuve and Ricardo Zonta at the Queen Elizabeth II conference centre, allowing an expectant media their first glimpse of the team's new livery. The car on show was predominantly white, in contrast to last year's colour explosion, and featured dominant Lucky Strike logos. Sister brand 555 was notable by its absence, but 1999 sponsor Teleglobe remained, and was joined by new backer Sonax. Test and development drivers Darren Manning and Patrick Lemarie were also present at the launch.


Speaking proudly of the tie-up with one of motorsport's most successful engine suppliers, BAR boss Craig Pollock appeared keen to put a disappointing maiden season behind the team.


"Our distinctive new look shows that the 2000 season marks a fresh start as we embark on a very exciting partnership with Honda," Pollock said, "Working with a company that has such an engineering-led, results-orientated approach to everything it undertakes has had a really positive effect on everyone at Brackley. Enthusiasm is infectious and, when backed by knowledge, experience and a hunger for results, is a very powerful combination."


The new season sees Honda entering its third era in Formula One, and the company will not only develop and manufacture the RA000E V10 engine, but also play a big part in the chassis development of the 002.


"Honda Motor Company manufactures complete cars," stressed F1 project leader Takefumi Hosaka, "We know that there is a great deal more to recognise than just horsepower output. Racing chassis technologies, the total management system and a thorough knowledge of the whole picture are areas in which Honda is keen to develop and they represent a fresh challenge for our third generation in Formula One."