Honda confident of more progress

Honda Racing are confident they can maintain the rate of progress they have shown at the start of the season thanks to the upgrades they plan to introduce at this weekend`s Spanish Grand Prix.

The Japanese manufacturer tried out aerodynamic improvements, revised suspension and other mechanical changes during last week`s test at Barcelona, and the run has left them bullish about challenging for points in the race.

Team principal Ross Brawn said: “The team has made good progress at each race so far this season, gaining in confidence and performing better on each occasion.

“Our recent development push on the RA108 with a new aerodynamic package, suspension modifications and driveability improvements showed pleasing results during the four-day test this week.

“I expect these developments to add to our competitiveness and improve our points scoring potential at the Spanish Grand Prix and the races to follow.”

Jenson Button only got limited mileage with the new car parts at the Barcelona test, thanks to wet weather, but he thinks that the team can target getting through to Q3 again.

“Our performance over the first three races showed a steady rate of improvement, which was encouraging for the whole team and has given us renewed confidence in the car,” he explained.

“Although I was not able to complete much mileage at the test this week due to the weather, the team had three days evaluating the new upgrades, so I am confident that we are in good shape.

“We hope to be challenging for a top ten qualifying position again which would put us in position for a strong race.”

Teammate Rubens Barrichello added: “”We had a very successful four-day test at the Circuit de Catalunya and were able to work through a lot of test items.

“Our main focus was the mechanical and aerodynamic developments for the RA108 car at this race. We saw a significant lap time improvement with the new upgrades, which is very pleasing, but as ever, we need to wait until the race weekend to determine how this will impact our position on the grid. I`m confident that we have continued to make good progress.”

21.4.2008   ▪ Formula One    ▪ Honda    ▪ www.autosport.com