Renault moving in the right direction at Barcelona

ING Renault F1 Team today completed its third day of testing at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya. The team made the most of a sunny day and good track conditions to continue preparations for the forthcoming Spanish Grand Prix.

After yesterday was disrupted by poor weather conditions, ING Renault F1 Team completed its planned programme today, without encountering any problems. Heikki Kovalainen, continuing driving duties for a second day, worked on car set-up this morning, then concentrated on aero testing for the forthcoming Spanish and Monaco Grands Prix. The Finn also conducted tyre evaluations over long runs, to check wear levels and the consistency of the car’s handling.

The day proved productive, with 123 laps completed, equivalent to 564 km. At the end of the day, Heikki finished fourth on the timesheets, in 1:22.378 – and was pleased with his work.

Heikki Kovalainen: “I think we made good progress with the aero tests today, and we compared the two tyre types over long runs to compare the tyre wear and the car’s handling. The results of our work were encouraging. What’s more, I have driven in wet and dry conditions this week, which means I am feeling well-prepared for next week’s race. I am now really looking forward to seeing how the weekend goes.”

Christian Silk, Chief Test Engineer: “We had planned a big programme today to catch up the track time we lost yesterday, and we managed to complete every item, which is pleasing. There were some interesting developments in chassis set-up, and I think they are promising for the coming races. We are moving in the right direction, and we hope that our situation will improve a little in the coming weeks.”

The team will complete its test programme tomorrow with Giancarlo Fisichella at the wheel of the R27.

Heikki Kovalainen, R27-05, 123 laps, 564 km, best lap: 1:22.378