13-Jan-09: Toyota to Launch with Movie-Style Trailer

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This if F1 Minute for the 13th January 2009.

We saw a relatively subdued Ferrari launch yesterday, and now have more details about the upcoming Toyota launch. On Thursday, the team will unveil their new car online, and they’ve prepared a special website for the event. TF109-premiere.com features a countdown at the moment, but upon the launch, we’ll see a big-screen movie trailer, virtual tour of the car, plus videos from team members. Apparently the move to an online launch is more about cutting costs than allowing fans greater access, but it seems to be a win-win situation.

Elsewhere, Mark Webber has given another progress update in his BBC column, saying he won’t be using his leg as any excuse when we get to Melbourne, although he doesn’t think he’ll be disadvantaged anyway. Webber also admitted that Vettel may be his toughest teammate so far, but he’s looking forward to the challenge.

Finally, after yesterdays bad news for the ex-Honda team, Grandprix.com is reporting that Mercedes are likely to step up to supply engines.

That’s it for today, I’ll be back tomorrow with another F1 Minute.