Toyota tests in Malaysia

The manufacturer, which is entering F1 for the first time next year, spent three days at the Malaysian Grand Prix circuit of Sepang. The team's Scottish driver Allan McNish carried out the first two days of running, while team mate Mika Salo ran today (Monday).

McNish completed 98 laps over the two days setting a best time of 1m43.07s, while Salo managed 56 laps on his single day. His fastest time was a 1m42.59s. Salo's best was seven seconds off Michael Schumacher's pole time for this year's Malaysian GP in March, but compares better with the fastest race lap of 1m40.96s set by Mika Hakkinen.

Toyota's test team continued the work it has carried out at nine European circuits this year, concentrating on gathering circuit data, electronic mapping and traction control.

McNish had never driven at the Sepang track before and was impressed. "The circuit is very nice and technical," he said. "I am quite happy with the times I did, particularly as I was testing with used tyres.

"The test in general was very important for us because the first three races of next year are all fly-away and it is essential for the whole team to get some logistics experience before Australia in March."

Salo was also upbeat. "I was just continuing the job that Allan was doing on engine and electronic mapping," said the Finn. "I have learned new things about the track today that I would not have time to learn in a racing situation next year."