Strakka-Dome Continues Test Program at Aragon

Strakka Racing has had a busy week of testing and developing the new, as yet-to-be-raced Strakka-Dome S103 Nissan at Motorland Aragon in Spain, focusing primarily on aero developments, new components and night running.

The British team has accumulated more than 2,500 miles of trouble-free running this week, including three hours of night time running the first four days. That marked the car’s first proper night run at speed.

The car’s holdup to this point had been the homologation of the headrest, but a thorough analysis and fix of the problem appears to have been completed.

“Prior to our departure we created and fitted 3D printed components to the car to make sure that the new design was perfect prior to our final manufacturing sign off,” team manager Karl Patman told Sportscar365.

“As we have to come expect with 3D printed parts, they were dimensionally and functionally correct. 3D printing and the partnership we enjoy with Stratasys has been extremely useful for a lot of the recent development work and the design changes Strakka has led in the UK.

“All of the new final components are now in the latter stages of manufacture, so fitting them is our first job on our return to the workshop.”

The S103 sampled low, mid and high-downforce configurations and also tried some new parts.

“We had some ceramic coated parts from our newest technical partner Zircotec, optimizing thermal management around the engine,” Patman said. “We have also worked hard with Gibson Technology to make sure we are maximizing the potential of the Nissan engine.

“Yutaka Hiwatari from Gibson has been a real asset, working closely with the engineers and drivers to maximize the drivability in all conditions.”

All three drivers Nick Leventis, Jonny Kane and Danny Watts spoke highly of the car as they prepare for their return to the FIA World Endurance Championship after missing the full 2014 season.

Next week, all three drivers will be in Strakka’s simulator for virtual work. No further track tests are planned before The Prologue at Paul Ricard at the end of March.