The DTM returned to the Hockenheimring (GER) this week for the first time since the grand finale of the 2017 season: The six BMW drivers and their rivals were back at the 4.574-kilometre from Monday to Thursday for an official test.
In total, they completed more than 1,500 laps and 7,000 kilometres. BMW Team RMG, BMW Team RBM and the drivers used the test to prepare meticulously for the season-opener at the same venue on 5th May 2018, and to gain experience with the modified BMW M4 DTM.
A BMW driver topped the timings list on two of the four days. Bruno Spengler (CAN) set the best time of the week in his BMW Bank M4 DTM on Wednesday in 1:32.089 minutes. The annual Media Day had kicked off the DTM test week on Monday.
Reactions from the DTM test in Hockenheim:
Marco Wittmann (#11 BMW Driving Experience M4 DTM, BMW Team RMG):
“The test was very productive. We got through a lot of laps, were able to get some thorough testing under our belt and are very happy. It was not just about the general performance for us. We tried to work on certain points and get through our programme. On the two days of good weather we were able to gain a lot of experience and make some important findings to really understand the car. You obviously don’t know exactly what the opposition has been doing in the meantime, or who has been on what tyres when. As such, there are still a few question marks. However, as everyone is well aware, they will be answered in the first qualifying session. All in all, it was a positive test for the team and me. I am looking ahead to the start of the season at Hockenheim with confidence and am pleased that it is just three weeks until we get going again.”
Augusto Farfus (#15 Shell BMW M4 DTM, BMW Team RMG):
“The test was very good. We got through many kilometres and gathered a lot of data. I was the fastest man on Wednesday afternoon. That gives us a positive feeling and a nice boost. We ran through various scenarios – short runs and long runs. It was good preparation for us to get everything up and running.”
Timo Glock (#16 DEUTSCHE POST BMW M4 DTM, BMW Team RMR):
“All in all, the test at Hockenheim went well. We even had time to try out a few interesting things. The task now is to take a close look at the data we have gathered and to draw the correct conclusions looking ahead to the opening races.”
Philipp Eng (#25 SAMSUNG BMW M4 DTM, BMW Team RMR):
“We have completed a very intensive test programme here at Hockenheim. That has really helped me, as I am still getting used to the specific challenges that the DTM car poses to my driving style. However, I think we have found a good set-up for this circuit – one I am happy with. My preparations for the DTM debut are on track.”
Bruno Spengler (#7 BMW Bank M4 DTM, BMW Team RBM):
“They were two very productive days for me. We made good progress. The car felt good. We were definitely working in the right direction. Given the short time available, we all did a great job and took full advantage of that time. We were able to test various different things. On the whole, I am very happy and looking forward to the first race.”
Joel Eriksson (#47 BMW M4 DTM, BMW Team RBM):
“I am very happy with this test. I was able to do many laps on both of my days in the car and got used to it even more. I really learned a lot – especially during my long runs on Thursday. They were completely new for me. We also found some good things in terms of set-up and I feel really comfortable in the car.”
