Reid pleased with Taupo changes

The circuit hosted its maiden A1GP round last January, but the twisty layout offered few overtaking opportunities.

The fast left-right-left chicane at the end of the main straight has been turned into a tight left-hander and a tight right-hander in a bid to create better racing, and Reid believes that it will work.

"Cars will now be subjected to heavier braking, which opens up more opportunities to pass," said Reid. "You can see the strategy immediately.

"If drivers are prepared to push hard, and they're good enough, they should be rewarded."

David Steele, managing director of Taupo Motorsport Park, believes that the experience of the first race last year has enabled them to improve the track for January's event.

"Big cars, great drivers and an untried, little used circuit meant last January's inaugural A1GP race didn't have the passing opportunities we'd hoped," he said.

"But we're positive that won't be the case in year two. We've been proactive in implementing an important track change.

"Also, A1GP have introduced some important rule modifications and our circuit is constantly having more rubber laid down on it, giving it more grip and extra racing line options."