BMW aim to win F1 races with 2008 car to be unveiled January 14

"We want to win our first race next year. The big progress this year shows us that the direction in our development and the work we are doing is right. The motivation is high," said BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen.

 Theissen said that the new model, named F1.08, will be unveiled in BMW's home town on Munich on January 14. Testing starts the next day in Valencia, Spain.

 BMW came second in the constructors standings last season behind Ferrari. Nick Heidfeld of Germany and Robert Kubica were fifth and sixth, respectively, in the drivers standings. Heidfeld managed two podium finishes.

 "Nick and Robert impressed on and off the race track. That's why we will continue driving with them," said Theissen.

 Theissen said that development for the 2008 car started as early as May when it become clear that BMW was unable to match Ferrari and McLaren (who were later stripped of their constructors points over a spying affair).