Trulli hails new Renault

The Italian completed three days of running at the Spanish circuit with the 2003 Renault, which was running with 2002 bodywork.

The French manufacturer has produced the new car early in an attempt to ensure that it is fully tested and reliable before the start of next season. At the same time, delaying the introduction of the new aerodynamic package until well into the new year ensures that Renault's design team is allowed the maximum development time.

"We have made a lot of progress in all areas," said Trulli. "The engine, the gearbox, the suspension, everything is working perfectly. Obviously the car is not very well set-up in terms of electronics, but we are concentrating on getting as much running as possible to see if anything is breaking. It is too early to say much about the performance, but it felt right - I am not worried about its characteristics."

The team is to launch their new car in Lucerne, Switzerland, on January 20, with the full 2003-spec challenger running for the first time at Paul ricard on January 23.