Teams test development Chevy engine

Chevrolet is stepping up its efforts in the IRL next season to meet the challenge of Japanese giants Honda and Toyota, both of whom are entering the series in 2003 after switching over from CART.

Two-time IRL champion Sam Hornish Jr and Billy Boat drove for the Panther team, whilst Jaques Lazier and Vitor Meira were on hand for Menard. Boat and Meira concentrated on testing Firestone tyre developments.

"Everything went pretty smooth," Hornish said. "We worked all day checking the reliability of the engine, getting more time on the engine, knowing what it is capable of, what it is going to do. We just need to keep ticking away at it."

Lazier continued his comeback from season-ending back injuries he suffered in a crash at the Nazareth oval in April. "We accomplished a lot with GM, and I think everyone is on the same page," he said. "It is a very exciting time right now. I really needed this test. I feel that I am back at 100 percent. I'm excited to be back and have the same enthusiasm that I had before."