Formula One: Williams aborts test of new engine cover

SHANGHAI, April 17, 2010; - Williams has become the latest Formula One team to test a device designed to give them more straight-line speed, debuting a new engine cover during practice at the Chinese Grand Prix on Saturday.

The car of Rubens Barrichello was fitted with an engine cover vent that directs air onto the rear wing and is intended to create less downforce and add top-line speed.

The parts were to have been fitted to Barrichello's car for Friday practice, but they were held up by Chinese customs before arriving at the Shanghai circuit.

Barrichello was unhappy with the balance of the car with the new vent installed, and the team reverted back to its original design midway through Saturday's 60-minute practice session.

The Brazilian veteran finished the session in 16th position, while teammate Nico Hulkenberg, whose car featured the original engine cover throughout, could only manage 18th place.

A number of teams have tried to develop their own versions of McLaren's so-called 'F-duct' system, which the team has used to great effect in Shanghai this weekend along the one-kilometre back straight, where cars reach speeds of 310km/h.

The British team pioneered the system in the season-opening race in Bahrain, and Ferrari have tested their own variation of the F-duct this weekend.

Midfield runners Sauber are the only other team to have raced with the controversial bodywork addition so far this season.

- AFP