Scuderia Ferrari Drivers Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa Kick Off Shell "At the Forefront of Technology" Red Carpet Event
Abu Dhabi, UAE -November 1, 2012
Hot on the heels of their 500th Formula One race milestone, Shell celebrated with Ferrari their extraordinary partnership with an exclusive UAE technology showcase. Ahead of their Abu Dhabi Formula OneÔ Grand Prix race, Scuderia Ferrari drivers Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa joined invited prominent guests to view the latest innovations in transportation lubricants through a high profile event held at the Yas Viceroy Hotel, featuring a visual history of the technical partnership, combined with innovative performances and experiences.
Shell's partnership with Ferrari is one of the most successful partnerships in Formula OneÔ history and the companies recently celebrated their 500th Formula One Grand Prix together at the 2012 Singapore Formula OneTM Grand Prix race. Having participated, in partnership, in more than half of all the Formula One races ever run, they have together amassed over 160 wins.
Parallels between the partnership's 500th race and its first, Monaco 1950, hold the key to understanding the crucial role technology continues to play in enabling this success. Both races demanded mastery of a tight street circuit, total precision and commitment from the driver and with high temperatures and thousands of gear changes over the course of the race, a strong, reliable engine and gearbox.
In 2012, as in 1951, Scuderia Ferrari continues to rely heavily on Shell for ultimate high performance fuels and lubricants as well as technical and scientific support through the Shell Track Lab, during the races. At the heart of Scuderia Ferrari's legendary engine performance is Shell Helix engine oil.
Considered the ultimate in reliability, efficiency and performance, Shell Helix engine oil is designed to deliver the best power and protection to Scuderia Ferrari. Shell Helix is a 'multitasking' lubricant designed to control the engine temperature, and prevent the detrimental effects of heat, by conducting heat away from the engine. Over 50 of Shell's scientists and engineers are dedicated to delivering Shell's technical partnership with Ferrari, enabling Shell Helix engine oil to continue helping the performance of Scuderia Ferrari.
Reflecting Shell's commitment to ensuring that any technological advantage developed for Ferrari is passed directly through to motorists, Shell scientists are dedicated to transferring technology solutions developed for Scuderia Ferrari to road-going equivalents.
Speaking at the event, Mark Carne, Executive Vice President of Shell in the Middle East and North Africa, said: "The significant 500 race milestone Shell crossed together with Ferrari this year attests to the strength of our ongoing partnership. Throughout our 60 years of shared passion for performance, we have continually pushed the boundaries of technology to come together as two of the world's most recognized names in motorsport. Our partnership continues to challenge us to fast-track the evolution of fuels and lubricants, not only on the Formula One track but also for everyday motorists. We are proud to share the same values with Scuderia Ferrari, which is fundamental to making our partnership a lasting success."
During a typical Formula OneTM race weekend, Shell scientists analyze more than 40 samples of Shell Helix engine oil and 30 samples of Shell V-Power fuel from the Scuderia Ferrari cars in the Shell Trackside Laboratory. This testing not only ensures compliance with the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) regulations, but aids product development, and knowledge transfer from the racetrack to the road.
As part of Shell's ongoing commitment to delivering its latest technology to the UAE and to knowledge sharing initiatives, the global company invited engineering students from Abu Dhabi Men's College to participate in this event, in recognition of their efforts to successfully develop a 'made in the UAE' fuel-efficient car in 2012. The student's innovation and drive for technology excellence enabled them to compete in the prestigious Shell Eco-Marathon global event in Kuala Lumpur, alongside more than 420 teams from more than 40 countries all over the world.
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About Shell's Technical Partnership with Ferrari
Shell's partnership with Ferrari is one of the most successful partnerships in Formula OneÔ history. Having contested, in partnership, more than half of all the Formula One races ever run, they have together amassed 12 Drivers' Championships and 10 Constructors' Championships.
This strong historical footing provides the basis for what is also one of the most forward-looking partnerships in contemporary motorsport.
For more information, please visit http://www.shell.com/home/content/motorsport/ferrari/
© Press Release 2012