Toyota Complete First Test with New Car

The Toyota team today completed their first test of 2003, with Olivier Panis working at the wheel of the new TF103 chassis.

The car, which was unveiled on Wednesday before completing its shakedown, was driven by the Frenchman around the Paul Ricard circuit. Panis managed a total of 70 laps with the new TF103 and admitted he was positive about its performance, although he refused to make any predictions.

"The weather has been mixed all week, and the track was rarely completely dry," said Panis. "I did get some laps in the dry today and my initial impressions of the TF103 are positive, however it is still too early to make any real assessment.

"Next week's test in Barcelona will definitely give us a clearer understanding. It has been a busy week, and I would like to send my thanks to everyone in the Cologne factory, who worked so hard over Christmas and New Year to get the car ready in time for this test."

Teammate Cristiano da Matta was also on track. The CART champion drove the hybrid TF102B, completing a total of 83 laps. No times were issued.

"We struggled a lot with the weather this week with a lot of heavy rain, but it meant I did some runs in both wet and dry conditions," said the Brazilian. "I learned a little bit more about the 102B car, but we did not get as many laps done as I would have liked.

"The TF103 launch on Wednesday was very good and the new car looks great. I really cannot wait to drive it at Paul Ricard in two weeks' time."

Toyota will travel to the Barcelona circuit next week for a three-day session from 14-16 January.