McLaren say test positive despite problems

The MP4-30 ran only six laps on each of the first two days, but extended mileage on the third and fourth days did at least allow the team to do some homework.

Despite a total for the week of only 79 laps, the team insist that they have learned a lot.

"Unfortunately, we've had a few issues this week – all of which have been pretty small – but cumulatively they meant we were stuck in the garage for quite some time," said engineering director Matt Morris.

"Still, our prime objective coming away from this test was to ascertain that the main car architecture worked, and we've done that. One of the great benefits we've had in designing this car is the amount of work we've been able to undertake in close collaboration with Honda – particularly in terms of packaging.

"In tandem with that, we've really been helped by Mobil 1 – they designed a bespoke engine oil for us that's been optimised around the Honda power unit.

"That meant we were really able to push the limit on packaging and installation because we've had the confidence of knowing the cooling limits of the rear end, and the transmission.

"The result is a beautifully packaged piece of kit, and it's an area around which we'll continue to push development throughout the season."

Aerodynamic progress 

Morris insists that despite Jenson Button running only 35 laps on the final day, the team had been able to get into aerodynamic work, and thus focus on the car as well as the power unit and systems checks.

"We had a couple of stoppages, but we were still able to get on with our aero programme – obtaining correlation data for the guys back at the factory, just so we can check that everything's working as we expected," added Morris.

"Additionally, Jenson's been able to give Honda some really good feedback – he's been constantly providing analysis after every run.

"That's to be expected: it's a new power unit, so there's a lot of information that being sent back to Japan, and Honda are constantly upgrading the car."