Video and pictures: Sahara Force India unveil the VJM11

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Sahara Force India chief Vijay Mallya believes the launch of the new VJM11 can help the team “fight for points at every race” in 2018.

The VJM11 was unveiled by team drivers Sergio Perez and Esteban Ocon at the start of pre-season testing at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona this morning.

Team principal Mallya said: “I see no reason why we cannot consolidate our position and improve. Yes, Formula 1 is a very tough and competitive environment, but we are an established team with continuity in all areas of the company. We don’t take anything for granted, but we will be disappointed if we are not fighting for points at every race this year.”

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Featuring a new “fresh look” livery incorporating pink, magenta and silver, the 2018 car is based on last year’s model. Technical director Andrew Green said: “The DNA of the car is still very much that of last year’s car. We took the decision, quite a while ago, that the launch specification of the 2018 car would be based around our understanding of the 2017 car, but with all new structures required by the regulations in place.

“It is a starting point, a good reference from which to introduce changes quite quickly; it gives our aerodynamics department more time to develop a car for the first race in Australia, rather than having to release parts early for testing.”

In pictures: Sahara Force India VJM11