Toyota Unlikely to Test New Car Before 2002

The Toyota Formula One team will probably not be able to run with their new car before the start of next year despite being able to test until the end of December, according to team manager Ange Pasquali.

Toyota already announced their intention to continue testing during November and December, taking advantage of a loophole in the FIA regulations, which state that the teams can't test their cars on the track from the end of the season until New Year's day.

However, despite being able to test during the ban, the Japanese team, who will make their racing debut in 2002, will probably not have their new car ready before next year.

"It would be possible if we had the new car, but I think it will not be ready until the end of the year or the beginning of January," Pasquali told TF1 in an interview. "It's not possible to build a new car so quickly. It's not our plan.

"If we are allowed to test until December 31 and we can have the new car ready for December 20 or 25, there would still be a few days to test it."

The team are currently testing with their first prototype car with Mika Salo and Allan McNish at the wheel, and though the Finn driver is already confirmed for next season, the Scot's future is still in doubt.

Pasquali said there's a big chance that McNish will stay with them, but added that an announcement will be made during the team's presentation.

"I think [we'll make the announcement] during the car's launch and the presentation of the team," he said. "For the moment, we are very happy with his work and there's a great chance you will see him next year at the first Grand Prix in Melbourne."