BAR designers also managed to save significant weight over the 006 car, despite greater safety testing being required for the 2005 season.

However, the team's fortunes were turning slightly, and Jenson Button scored points in all of the last 10 races, including two podium finishes.

Both BAR-Hondas were disqualified from the San Marino Grand Prix after it was found the cars could run below the minimum weight, stated by the FIA regulations of 605 kg.

BAR disagreed with the report, claiming the cars could not run with less than 6 kg of fuel, therefore that pushed them over the minimum weight.

The FIA decided to punish the team, banning them from two races, including the Monaco Grand Prix.

[11][12] On 21 July 2006, Honda used the car to achieve a top speed of 397.481 km/h (246.983 mph) at the Bonneville Salt Flats.