German automaker BMW-Sauber unveiled their new Formula One car in Munich on Monday, hoping to get a first victory in the upcoming season and then to challenge for the world title in 2009.

 

"This is the most beautiful car I have ever seen," said BMW's German driver Nick Heidfeld, who like in 2007 will be partnered by Poland's Robert Kubica.

 

The F1.08 car, unveiled at the BMW headquarters in Munich, has a distinct front wing which is to give the new model stability after the traction control has been outlawed for the 2008 season.

 

"The new car incorporates everything we have learnt over the past two and a half years," said BMW motorsport boss Mario Theissen.

 

BMW hope for a first team win in the 2008 season which starts on March 16 in Australia. In 2009, they want to challenge the leading teams of Ferrari and McLaren-Mercedes for the world title.

 

BMW finished second in the constructors standings behind Ferrari last season after the disqualification of McLaren over a spying affair. Heidfeld was fifth in the drivers standings with two podium finishes and Kubica placed sixth.

 

First tests are scheduled for Tuesday in Jerez, Spain.

 

(Xinhua News Agency January 15, 2008)