BAR hails test 'positive'

Following the mixed fortunes BAR endured at last week's Jerez test, where a series of crashes and slow days were followed by a near record-breaking low fuel run from Jenson Button on the final day, the team is confident that it is in good shape for the start of the season.

The BAR 007 was fitted with the latest aerodynamic package and had new engine components fitted to help Honda in its bid to get to the required 1300km distance required for two race distances this year.

"We were able to put some valuable mileage on both cars car this week, running through aerodynamic and tyre programmes in preparation for the start of the season," said Button. "The wind made the running a little difficult but overall I am happy with the progress made. We'll be back in Valencia next week for one final test before the real action begins in Melbourne."

Sato added: "We could only run one new car due to preparations back at the factory for the first race but still the work we achieved was useful. I'm feeling positive about our testing progress as we get so close to the new season."

Honda has confirmed that BAR's final pre-season test, at Valencia in Spain next week, will see it introduce another engine upgrade to help for the Australian Grand Prix.

Shuhei Nakamoto, Honda's engineering director, said: "The latest specification engine went pretty much as we thought it would, and we will be bringing in a further upgrade to complete pre-season preparations back here next week."