Super Aguri Jerez test notes 2007-12-07

Takuma Sato concluded the last test of 2007 for Super Aguri F1 Team in Jerez today. He started the morning with a continuation of yesterday's MES control system tuning programme, which was predominately aimed at improving the various parameters within the engine control system.

In the afternoon Takuma revisited the 2009 regulation slick tyres with simulated 2009 downforce levels (which will see the cars run with approximately 25% less downforce than in 2007/2008). He experimented with different mechanical set-ups in anticipation of the coming rule changes and finished the day with a best lap time of 1.21.092.

James Rossiter:

"In the morning (day 1) we worked on balance runs after waiting for the circuit to 'rubber in'. We worked on 2009 simulated downforce with the slick tyres and it was difficult to drive the car at first, with very little downforce, but the slicks were good. We had to compromise in high speed, but gained in low speed, so I think that it was a first day and we completed the full programme."

Anthony Davidson:

"We had another productive day today in sunny Jerez (day 2). It was good to be back in the car at a circuit I know well. We worked on driveability on the engine side and spent time getting used to the car without traction control. It was a big challenge trying to get close to peak performance without driver aids, but we made steady progress throughout the day. We got faster with each new tyre run and I was happy to end the day with a respectable time on groove tyres."

Takuma Sato:

"It is good to be back in an F1 car as it is my first test since the Brazilian Grand Prix. I am quite impressed with the developments that have been made with the MES system since our last test running it back in July at Spa. It is very different driving without TC and support systems and I am pleased with the progress that we have made in driveability over these past two days and the amount of important data we have collected."

"It was my first experience of the 2009 slick tyre -- the first time since my Formula 3 days -- and it was a good experience. We have a lot of tuning to do before we move onto these tyres for racing, but overall I believe that it has been an extremely productive test."

Graham Taylor, Sporting Director:

"The final test for Super Aguri F1 Team went very well with all our drivers taking to the circuit and helping develop our understanding of the MES system. We would like to thank Bridgestone for giving the opportunity to assess the type of tyre we will be running in 2009."

"Finally, we would like to thank the drivers, members of our team, everyone at Honda and all our supporters for their help and efforts during Super Aguri's second season in Formula One. Merry Christmas to all."

Takuma Sato
Chassis: SA07-05B
No. of Laps: 87
Best Lap Time: 1:21.092

-credit: super aguri