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Sergio Perez takes the new VJM07 for a cruise at
Jerez on Day-1 of winter testing. (Image source: f1fanatic.co.uk)
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Although I haven't actually been able to
S-E-E the new striking livery of this year's Force India VJM07, but have read
that its new predominant colour is jet black with India's traditional green,
white and orange being retained, whilst two major Mexican sponsors now adorn
the flanks of the new racecar - which certainly "Mr. Playah," nee Vijay Mallya,
the initials in the cars type designation will enjoy this cash infusion as he's
still apparently a 'Wee bit short on funds these days...
As the new sponsors are a direct result of
the hiring of Mexico's Sergio Perez who was ejected from his McLaren drive
after only a single season; as Force India sports an all new driver line-up
with the return of thee "Incredible Hulk," nee Nico Hulkenberg who's effectively
swapped seats with his German countryman Adrian Sutil who replaces him at
Sauber, whilst I've read how Jules Bianchi or was it "JEV," aka Jean-Eric
Vergne or both? Who wanted the coveted No. 27 - but Hulkenberg finished ahead
of both of them and hence got the number first.
Also new to the driving roster is Daniel Juncadella,
as the team's official "Simulator Jockey;" Err test/reserve driver,
having previously tested for Williams in the F1 Young Driver tests before
joining the team for '14 whilst racing for Mercedes in the DTM in 2013 - and
will keep his day job in 2014 along with attending all Formula 1 races, taking
part in Pre-season tests and Friday morning sessions at Grand Prix's.
And the car's new snout; Err front nose is
all the rage by apparently mimicking an Anteater thanks to the new rules and
their interpretation of them - as this is one of the team's I'm rootin' for
this year, since although I don't think it'll happen again, nevertheless, this
is the Minnowesqe F1 team which almost beat the mighty McLaren International
for fifth place in the Constructor's championship last year!
CHASSIS INFO
Team: Force India
Chassis: VJM07
Engine: Mercedes Benz
Drivers
(Car#/Name)
11) Sergio Perez
27) Nico Hulkenberg