FPR Winton test summary

ADVANCED FORD PERFORMANCE: WINTON TEST

Ford Performance Racing has completed its second 2008 test and registered 100% reliability from its new components as well as posting the two fastest times at Winton Motor Raceway today.

FPR registered nearly 300 laps between the #5 Orrcon Ford Credit and #6 Castrol FPR Falcons, with enduro drivers Luke Youlden and Dean Canto both getting an hour each behind the wheel in overcast, cool conditions.

The team was testing new engine, chassis and suspension elements as well as bedding in parts whose manufacture has been brought in-house, extending FPR's self-reliance. In addition, some of today's work will be implemented into the new FG race car.

The test was attended by Tasman Motorsport, Garry Rogers Motorsport, Ford Rising Stars, Rod Nash Racing and Rick Kelly who shook down his new car.

Tim Edwards

Team Principal

"It's been a long break since we've been able to try new components so it was an extensive testing programme today. Even so, there was absolutely no down-time from any component failure at all, which is pretty incredible for so many new parts.

"After such great results, there's potential for some of the new elements to be introduced later this year, although everything's out the door for Darwin because we'll be running a new tyre compound there and won't be introducing anything new."

Steven Richards

#6 Castrol FPR Falcon

"We were doing a lot of routine things like running new components and trying new things for the Winton race meeting as much as anything else. The car felt like it usually does, but the track didn't have much grip.

"All the things we try on the car are with a view to improving it in one way or another, whether it's speed, reliability or making it easier to work on; it all adds to the overall performance. It's important to keep progressing with development and not rest on your laurels."

Luke Youlden

FPR Enduro Driver

"I've been fortunate to drive with some pretty good teams in V8 but they all achieve their times in slightly different ways. The FPR car is a bit stiffer in the chassis so you have to drive it a bit smoother, but it's doing the times so I'd have to say it's one of the better car's I've driven."

Dean Canto

FPR Enduro Driver

"We haven't been told any driver combinations yet but it doesn't really matter as far as driving style. You just have to match the full-time driver and, looking at the data, we all drive in a very similar way. At the end of the day it will be up to the engineers."

-credit: fpr