Lowdon signals Cadillac strategy shift after Barcelona testing

15:31, 31 Jan

bySamson Ero

Graeme Lowdon has indicated that Cadillac will adopt a different approach when it resumes testing, following the team’s shakedown outing in Barcelona.

“Then in Bahrain, it’s much more of a focus on performance…”

- Graeme Lowdon

The 60-year-old explained that the Barcelona test was deliberately centred on reliability rather than outright pace, as the team worked to establish a solid foundation for its debut campaign.

“The target for this week was very much a shakedown — trying to remove all of the different unknowns, ticking off various tests and various kinds of things that are less performance-oriented. They’re more to do with reliability and ensuring that we have a stable platform,” Lowdon said via F1.com.

However, the Cadillac team principal acknowledged that the emphasis will shift significantly when the team heads to Bahrain for the next phase of testing.

Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas - Photo: Cadillac

“I think that’s pretty much the same up and down the pit lane. Then in Bahrain, it’s much more of a focus on performance — actually trying to see how fast we can make the cars go — and there hasn’t been much of that so far,” Lowdon continued.

Lowdon concluded by outlining the varied programmes Cadillac undertook throughout the Barcelona test, stressing that performance running was intentionally deprioritised.

“It’s been primarily about ensuring that we work through different programmes, testing different parameters, testing things at different extremes, and also working through any niggles that have appeared. So I think what we’ll see more of in Bahrain is an intentional turn towards performance instead of reliability.”

Perez admits to experiencing more problems than surprises

As Cadillac continues to iron out early issues with its new car, Sergio Perez admitted he encountered more problems than surprises during the Barcelona running.

Nevertheless, the Mexican driver was keen to highlight several positives, pointing to encouraging signs within the team as it navigates its maiden season in Formula 1.

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