Maranello launches Ferrari's 2008 F1 car

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FERRARI FACE FOR 2008: This is the car - well, pretty much the car, because it will certainly change before the first grid forms in March 2008 - Ferrari will race in the coming F1 series. Image: AFP FOUR-RACE GEARBOX, NO TRACTION CONTROLMaranello launches Ferrari's 2008 F1 car [ See related stories ]January 6, 2008Ferrari today launched its F2008 car for the 2008 Formula 1 season at its HQ in Maranello, Italy - the 54th single-seater the automaker has produced since first becoming involved in motor racing.Its internal codename is 659.Major new features follow regulatory modifications that include a new standard electronic control unit that all F1 cars have to use
Major new features follow regulatory modficiations.Other areas affected by regulation changes are the gearbox, which must last for four race meetings, and safety elements regarding helmets. Several driver aids, such as traction control and the electronically assisted starting system, have had to be removed.These changes have resulted in a a heavier car though this model will have changed significantly by the time the first GP grid forms up in March.World Drivers' champion Kimi Raikkonen will take the new car for its first outing at the nearby Fiorano track on Monday.Arch-rival McLaren will unveil its 2008 challenger on Monday at the Mercedes museum in Stuttgart, Germany. - AFP