Hinchcliffe, Servia complete NHR test

Indy Lights frontrunner Hinchcliffe was slightly quicker than Servia during the Sebring sessions, the Canadian lapping in 52.8 seconds compared to the Spaniard's 53.0s. The test was Hinchcliffe's first run in an IndyCar.

"We managed to get me up to speed pretty quickly and got to the point where I was comfortable enough in the car that we could start doing some set-up changes and some development work for the team," he said.

"It was a huge and successful day in that respect. I'm very happy that it didn't take two days to get up to a reasonable pace and that I was actually able to help the team with their test plans.

"I'm very grateful to Newman/Haas for the opportunity. It's a great car to drive; a lot of fun. It really lets you push and hustle and I think it's certainly something I'm looking to get back into in the future."

Servia was making a return to Newman/Haas, having completed part-seasons with the team in 2005 (in Champ Car) and '09. He did not have a drive this year.

"I'm very happy with the driving and I am feeling great; no rust," said Servia.

"I'm very happy that we made progress and found some direction on things and improved the car. It was a lot of fun.

"And it was as much fun, or more than I expected to work with James. He's as funny as he comes across on Twitter and obviously he can peddle too. He was on a little different programme but it showed how fast he can be. I'm hoping to work with him and the team in the future.

"Thank you to the Haas family and the Newman/Haas Racing team that once more made me feel at home. So many good things are happening in the IndyCar Series and I want to be part of it."