Kubica impressed with new BMW

The Pole took the F1.08 out for its first laps shortly after midday and, although nowhere near the limit of the machine, he was impressed with his early try out

"It was a good start," said Kubica. "I've only driven a few laps so far, but I have the impression that everything is heading in the right direction. The car feels more stable than its predecessor and it builds up more grip. I'm looking forward to the test days to come."

With the car having run trouble-free so far, technical director Willy Rampf said he was relieved about the way the first runs had gone.

"The entire team has been looking forward to this day with feverish excitement," he said. "And we are all accordingly delighted to have encountered no problems whatsoever on the first outing with this completely new vehicle.

"Now all the car's systems and entire sensor technology will be checked in detail before the start of the further test programme."

Nick Heidfeld is due to test the new car for the first time on Thursday.