Toyota launch in December

Toyota Formula 1 team has set the date for the launch of its first Grand Prix machine - and could be the first of the 2002 entrants to show its hand.Although British American Racing has vowed to have its new 004-Honda unveiled before Christmas, the Japanese giant has confirmed that its car will be launched to the media and public on Monday 17 December, at a ceremony in its new Cologne premises.

The exact time of the unveiling has yet to be confirmed, but Toyota will be pleased to get its programme on the road so early, especially as the rumour mill has suggested that it was lagging behind schedule with the build of the new car. The test hack has proven off the pace in recent runs, and the tem is hoping to have as much track time as [possible to iron out any problems with its race car.

The announcement of a launch date follows hot on the heels of last week's news that Allan McNish will indeed line up alongside Finn Mika Salo for the team's first season in Formula 1. The Scot has been impressive in testing, frequently matching his more experienced team-mate's times. The pair will be backed by Panasonic in their first season together.