Warwick gives thumbs up to new regulations

The Banbury-based squad took two of its new Touring Class Astra Coupes to Vallelunga for the Michelin tyre test last week, with both Yvan Muller and Jason Plato getting stints behind the wheel. Warwick came away content that the new rules, aimed at lowering budgets, have not cost too much speed.

"While we were there, the Super Touring Alfa [driven by Nicola Larini] was going around in mid-14s, the Super Production BMW [piloted by Peter Kox] was doing high-21s and low-22s, and we were lapping in the 17s and 18s," he said. "It's exactly where we forecast and exactly where we wanted to be."

Warwick, who gave up his place in Vauxhall's driving squad for a pitwall role three years ago, added that his drivers were happy with the performance levels that the new rules have dictated.

"I think they thought the new car was going to be a bit boring, but they both got out after a few laps and said: 'Wow! This ain't bad at all,'" added Warwick. "They were excited about it and that's good for us, because you need the drivers to be motivated."

Triple Eight plans to build six Astras for this year's BTCC. Muller and Plato will be factory-backed entries and two more will be run by a Triple Eight satellite team.

A further pair of cars are planned to be farmed out to a privately-run team. Works rivals Peugeot has yet to test its new 406, but has signed Independents Cup king Matt Neal, Steve Soper and Dan Eaves for the season.

"This year you'll see six Vauxhalls, three Peugeots, two Alfas and two Lexus in the Touring class," said Warwick. "Top that up with Super Production cars and you've got a great championship. There are lots of reasons to be positive about the BTCC."