McLaren Barcelona test notes 2005-04-06

The primary objective of Team McLaren Mercedes' three day test at the Circuit de Catalunya this week is focusing on performance runs, with both drivers completing short runs and simulated race distances during the planned programme.

The team will also be testing a number of new aerodynamic components over the three days, plus running new brake discs and carrying out damper work. The team has one MP4-19B at the week's test and a new MP4-20 chassis.

Alex was behind the wheel of the MP4-20 today, his second time in the 2005 race car. He completed 65 laps with a fastest time of 1m15.180s and this afternoon completed a series of short runs concentrating on Michelin tyre development.

Pedro completed 88 laps in the MP4-19B and set the fastest time of the day with a time of 1m14.393s. Pedro's programme was concentrating on simulations of the first qualifying session of a grand prix weekend. His programme incorporated several changes to the car set-up and this afternoon the programme concentrated on tyre work, focusing on short runs.

Alex Wurz:

"Today was only my second run in the MP4-20 so it took time to acclimatise. While I feel there are a few modifications which need to be made to the car, it was a positive test today."

Pedro de la Rosa:

"This morning we were running low fuel to simulate the first qualifying session over the race weekend. Today we all worked on different set-ups and a tyre programme, it was a good day."

-mclaren-