Learning with RenaultNelson Piquet Jr last week passed the 5000 km mileage mark with Renault in his role of test driver. Piquet talks of the winter test programme and adapting to his new role with the championship winning team.
Nelson, you did a lot of running last
week in Bahrain. How did it go?
"I did a lot of laps, lots of miles and we got some encouraging results. From my point of view, the track was brand new, and I really enjoyed it. I tried to concentrate on the programme at hand, and it was another good opportunity to work with the team and get behind the wheel, both of which are important for me."
The team has conducted six test sessions since January, and you have been present at every one of them. What’s more, you did the first R27 shakedown back in January. How are you settling into the team?
"I am feeling more and more comfortable, as I get to know the people I am working with, and the other team members. At each test, things are going better and better. I know how the team likes to work now, and what they expect from me. From my point of view, the more chances I have to drive, the better it is because at the moment, I am looking to make the most of every chance I get in the car."
What can you tell us about the
R27?
"It’s a good car – but there are still areas where we want to improve, and we know what they are. The team is working flat out to be ready from the start of the season in Australia, and I know we will work hard all through the year to develop the car. I will try and help as much as possible, and give everything I can to that effort."
How do you think you still need to improve?
"I am learning a lot, all the time, at every test I do with the team. Even when I am not running, I travel to the tests to try and understand even more, to be close to the team and to monitor how the car is developing. But I know I still have a lot to learn."
What will you be doing in the coming weeks?
"After this week’s test in Bahrain, I’ll be going back to England for a few days, then we leave quite early for a training session in Australia with the race drivers. And then we get down to business with the first race..."
Source Renault
