The newly launched Williams FW35 has already caught the eye of rival teams thanks to its innovative exhaust design. Though many within the paddock are questioning its legality.
The 2013 car features an airflow conditioner just behind the exhaust outlet, similar to that seen on the Caterham CT03 in Jerez. That too was declared illegal by rival teams, though the FIA has yet to make its view clear.
Williams technical director Mike Coughlan agreed with his peers view on the CT03, believing it to be outside of the regulations. However he believes Williams concept, which is made up of two non-connected parts – unlike Caterham’s – falls within the rules.
“For me, the Caterham one is really not allowed but ours is OK,” he said on Tuesday.
“If you look at ours, it’s not a single piece – it’s two pieces. Ours is a single aperture joined by a very small slot, so it’s actually two pieces.”
The FIA is likely to make a decision on the matter before the season begins in March. Should it be declared legal, it’s likely it will be copied up and down the grid.
