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Wednesday, January 21, 2015

Evolution Described as Driving Force with the 2015 Sahara Force India VJM08

Photo Credit: Sahara Force India Formula One Team

Entering its eighth season in Formula 1, Sahara Force India is still chasing its maiden grand prix victory. After a fair and consistent 2014 season topped by driver Sergio Perez claiming third place in the Chinese Grand Prix, the race organization scored points in all but two events on the calendar. Entering 2015, a mix of old and new will shape the Indian-owned team. The Sahara Force India team is one of only three Formula 1 teams returning to 2015 with the same primary driver line-up as the previous season with Sergio Perez and Nico Hulkenberg. Remaining powered by Mercedes-Benz customer engines (an arrangement in place since 2009), the team acknowledges new sponsors with a redesigned vehicle featuring a new look.

A car called the VJM08, the 2015 Formula 1 challenger from Sahara Force India was created by what the team said was, "evolution rather than revolution". The Force India VJM08's most visible difference over 2014 is the reshaped and lowered front section. The top surface of the nose sports a smooth shape that runs beyond the front wing. “It is a redesign that involved a lot of work over the winter, as the new regulations caused a loss in terms of downforce and we’ve been working to claw back all that performance.” said the team's Technical Director Andrew Green. The new VJM08 also incorporates revised air openings and a completely new electro-hydraulic rear suspension system replacing torsion springs.

What will be the most eye-catching change to the Sahara Force India race machine for 2015 is noted on the body panels. Green and white vanishes from the livery for the Sahara Force India team for 2015. Predominance of black (introduced in 2014) is joined by an all-new silver supporting colour. Orange accent striping splitting the black/silver paint scheme is also present on the VJM08. Royal Challenge, Kingfisher, Smirnoff and United Spirits are returning sponsors with the Sahara Force India team for 2015. Newcomers funding the team includes motor oil company Quaker State, tequila brand Jose Cuervo and Latin American insurance company Inter.

The 2015 Sahara Force India Formula 1 race car will make its on-track debut in Barcelona next month.