Irv Boosted By Power Steering.

Eddie Irvine has got his first major wish since joining Jaguar over the winter, when power steering was added to the new R1 in time for testing on Friday.


The Irishman, used to the driver aid at Ferrari, asked for it to be added to Jaguar's first pukka GP car after testing with last year's Stewart proved to be heavy on the arms. Although the system was not present at earlier tests of the R1, Irvine has now run with it in place, and found himself closer to the limit than previously. The Irishman still trailed new team-mate Johnny Herbert at Silverstone, but said that the car was easier to drive following the addition.


"Eddie ran with power steering for the first time, and was pleased with the results," confirmed Jaguar race director Andy Miller, "but, given the conditions there wasn't much time for evaluation. We were thwarted by the weather for much of the time, even though our aim was to concentrate on systems development in preparation for the new season."


The addition of power steering marks the first major deviation from R1 designer Gary Anderson's desire to keep the car as simple as possible. Like any other part of the car, the system is prone to suffer from vibration fed back through the wheels and engine, and could potentially lead to retirement if not up to the stresses involved.


"With all the cars I have designed, I have stuck to the same fundamental principles, and then compromised a bit here and there afterwards," admitted Anderson, "The same is true of this one. I think everyone likes it - it has been okay in testing, and the drivers seem pleased. It has potential."


After suffering the vagaries of the British winter, Jaguar is currently deciding whether to continue testing at Silverstone or Barcelona this week.