McLaren Silverstone test notes 2005-09-14

Team McLaren Mercedes completed its two day testing programme at the Silverstone circuit in Northamptonshire today, with Alex and Pedro continuing the testing duties.

Alex continued behind the wheel of the MP4-20A. His programme was focussing on Michelin tyre testing for the forthcoming Japanese Grand Prix. Alex set the second fastest time, completing 114 laps with no problems.

After yesterday's first test with a V8 engine, Pedro got back behind the wheel of the MP4-20B completing 40 laps of the circuit. After each series of timed runs, Pedro returned to the garage where the test team engineers were analysing the data and making changes to the car's set up. Steady progress was made throughout the day and the scheduled programme was completed with no problems.

Pedro de la Rosa:

"The last two days of testing have gone well. There is obviously a big difference in power between the Mercedes-Benz V10 and the V8, but this can be adapted to by adjusting your driving style."

"We are currently on a steep learning and it is early days, but so far all is going well and we have a long Winter testing programme to look forward to, to continue our development programme."

Alex Wurz:

"I can't believe we are nearly at the end of the 2005 season. This has really been brought home to me by the fact that we have been conducting Michelin tyre development work here for the Japanese grands prix! This has been a positive test and we now have a very good idea of which tyre we will run at Suzuka next month."

-mclaren-