Williams have endured their worst start to a Formula One season since 1979, having scored no points at all in the first three races as well as two double DNF’s.
The Chinese Grand Prix was the first time the FW33 has completed a race distance in competitive trim, though Rubens Barrichello and Pastor Maldonado could only manage 13th and 18th respectively.
Williams technical director Sam Michael says the next target is to finish in the top ten to finally get some points on the board.
“Although it was good to see the reliability improvements get both the FW33’s to the finish, we don’t get any satisfaction out of not scoring any points,” said Michael.
“However, the gap between 15th and 10th isn’t that big so that is our next target. Our focus is to get some points on the board.”
An issue with an upgraded exhaust in Shanghai meant it couldn’t be run during the race as it was overheating parts of the car, causing negative aero effect.
Williams will attempt to reintroduce it at the Spanish GP in just over four weeks time.
“We’re redesigning some parts and intend to reintroduce an upgraded version of this exhaust system at the Barcelona GP,” he added.
Meanwhile, several developments will make their way to the next race in Turkey, which the Grove-based outfit hope will be enough to get them some points.
“We are introducing a modified floor, new front wing, new rear wing and new brake ducts to both cars for Istanbul,” explained Michael. “We expect this to give us a few tenths to help our drivers get into the top ten.”
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