Good first day for Nelsinho and Renault at Jerez

ING Renault F1 Team today began its final test of the 2007 season in Jerez, Spain. The week will be spent preparing for the final three races of the year, but a substantial part of the work will also be relevant to 2008.

At the wheel of chassis R27-06, Nelson Piquet Jr began the day's work at 09:00 sharp, completing a busy morning. The focus for the day was primarily on 2008 software systems, and the Brazilian ran throughout without driver aids. He also completed brake and aerodynamic testing, focusing particularly on the forthcoming Chinese Grand Prix.

His running was limited by a mechanical problem during the afternoon, but Nelsinho nevertheless collected some very useful data, which will be built upon during the coming two days. He completed a total of 63 laps, which equates to 277 km, and finished sixth on the timesheets with a best lap of 1:22.009. He will be driving at all three days of this test.

Nelson Piquet Jr: "I was really looking forward to driving today, especially because I will be in the car every day this week, which is the first time I have had this opportunity since I joined the team. I felt comfortable with the car straight away, and the pace was OK. I will be aiming to bring the maximum to the team tomorrow as well, to ensure we have done the best possible preparation for the final three races of the year."

Christian Silk, Chief Test Engineer: "We made good progress this morning, Nelson got to grips with things quickly and we achieved our targets. The problem this afternoon was a little disappointing, but we had a productive first day even so. There are two days left, and lots to do. We will be looking to achieve as much mileage as possible before the end of the week."

Nelson Piquet Jr, R27-06, 63 laps, 277 km, best lap: 1:22.009