Gascoyne reveals new car
Toyota technical boss Mike Gascoyne has revealed the first version of his 2006 car, claiming his team are on course to challenge Formula One’s big guns.
Gascoyne’s first Toyota design propelled the team to their maiden podium and pole positions last season and the Englishman is hoping for another improvement next year.
Toyota today unveiled an interim version of their 2006 car, which will be tested for the first time at Barcelona tomorrow.
Gascoyne is typically bullish about Toyota’s chances next year, when Formula One’s top spenders will expect to break their victory duck.
He said: “We have been working on the new car since the end of 2004 and the introduction of this car at such an early stage is a true testament to the work of the team.
“It shows that we are able to react and push forward at a rate that is necessary to be at the forefront of Formula One.
“We are adopting a similar schedule to last season by testing the car early. This allows us to develop the mechanical side of car thoroughly before we introduce a new aerodynamic package in time for the first race.
“This strategy helped us to be extremely competitive at the start 2005 and we are confident the same will happen in 2006.”
Toyota, who will use Bridgestone tyres for the first time next season, have also confirmed Ricardo Zonta will stay on as their test driver.
The Brazilian, who has raced for Toyota, Jordan and BAR in the past, has opted to stay as a test driver rather than pursue a career racing in the United States, in either Champ Cars or the Indy Racing League.
He said: “I am very pleased to have signed again with Toyota for the coming season. We enjoyed such a successful year in 2005 and I am sure this trend will continue.
“I feel part of the family at Toyota and I would rather continue to offer them my services as third driver than become race driver in another series which I may not enjoy as much as Formula One.
“I feel that I have contributed significantly to Toyota’s success and I look forward to extensive testing of the new car to help propel us into the top flight of Formula One.”
French veteran Olivier Panis will also continue to test.
