By Phil Huff
January 16 2003

Sauber Petronas continued its first test of the year in Barcelona with Nick Heidfeld once again concentrating on the new Sauber Petronas C22, as Heinz-Harald Frentzen resumed component testing work on with a C21. Nick covered 81 laps while Heinz-Harald completed 68. Willy Rampf (Technical Director) said "Once again we were fortunate to have cold but dry weather today which enabled us to maintain consistency in this important first test of the Sauber Petronas C22. We are pleased the way the new car went again today when Nick did more laps than any one else today and the car proved completely reliable. Having completed all of our preliminary checks and evaluations yesterday our focus today was on aerodynamic work. In the afternoon we completed a tire test program on behalf of Bridgestone."

Nick Heidfeld commented "This has been another very good day for me. The car ran like clockwork. I am really enjoying myself adapting to its characteristics which are different to the C21's".

Heinz-Harald Frentzen said "Today I continued running in the C21 carrying on the component testing that we started yesterday and also working on the launch control. I will have my first drive in the C22 tomorrow. I am really looking forward to it. Nick already says it is a better car than last year."