CHEVROLET LACETTI TWC HAS SUCCESSFUL SHAKE DOWN

Rob Huff Happy With “Comfortable and Smooth” Car

Yesterday’s shake down of the first 2006-spec Chevrolet Lacetti WTC at Millbrook was a success. Just like last year it was British driver, Rob Huff, who was the first to drive the new WTCC race car. “It was a very positive experience,” Huff said. “The car feels very comfortable and the left-hand drive is definitely a positive move. The engine felt very good throughout the test, and as a whole the car feels a lot smoother and tighter. It also feels more responsive to changes.”

The test was carried out on the long straight at Millbrook and mainly served aerodynamic purposes. RML’s Chief Executive, Ray Mallock, was equally pleased with the day’s proceedings. “For a first, albeit brief test, the results were good. At this stage we are essentially ensuring the new systems are all functioning correctly which is the case. Tommorow we will continue the evaluation when we visit the MIRA full size windtunnel for conformation of the final aerodynamic performance. Needless to say we are looking forward to start our winter circuit test programme at the end of this month. “

Chevrolet’s WTCC winter test programme starts at Brands Hatch on February 21st and 22nd, when all three drivers will be present to test the first two of the 2006 Chevrolet Lacetti WTCs. Brands Hatch is also one of the new circuits on the 2006 WTCC calendar. The week after Brands Hatch the team will go to Albacete in Spain and then to Magny Cours in France in early March.

The first group test is scheduled on March 21st and 22nd at Monza, while the first will take place at the same venue on April 2nd.