Wirth Research, the design and development team responsible for Virgin Racing’s all-digital Formula One car, have put the VR-01 through its final paces ahead of today’s official shakedown at Silverstone.

On Tuesday evening, the car passed the rear impact structure test with flying colours, the last major challenge before it reaches hard asphalt and commences three rounds of crucial testing in Spain prior to the team’s debut race in Bahrain.

“We are delighted to have sailed through the sign-off of the VR-01’s structural integrity in accordance with the FIA’s crash testing requirements. We’re all set for our initial shakedown before heading out to Jerez to begin three weeks of testing. Everyone is looking forward to finally seeing the VR-01 on track,” Virgin Racing’s Technical Director, Nick Wirth, commented.