Team SAUBER PETRONAS started its first three-day test with Michelin tyres at the Circuit de Catalunya today where regular driver Felipe Massa covered a total of 71 laps in chassis C23-02 to set a best time of 1:14.939s.
Naturally a lot of time was spent concentrated on adapting the car’s balance to the new tyres, but the Swiss based squad also managed to define a new suspension set-up and adjusted the C23 accordingly. Felipe will continue testing here tomorrow before Jacques Villeneuve will have his first test for the team on Friday.
“Already at Hinwil we ran simulations on the basis of Michelin tyre data and developed a good foundation for our work today. Overall we were able to deliver good test results and are happy with today’s outcome,” said Jacky Eeckelaert. “Tomorrow we will evaluate new brakes and run aerodynamic tests in preparation to 2005. Our target this week is to collect valuable Michelin tyre and downforce data for the next season.”
;)
