By Nick Sparkes
May 11 2006

Like everybody else, Toyota has used the Catalunya track for much of their pre-season testing. Therefore the team knows the circuit well, and is one of a few, which the team go to with sufficient data on set-up. But as Pascal Vasselon explains, the track conditions can change to something new. Pascal notes that even though the team has tested here since early December with the then new TF106, they must be prepared for the unknown with track conditions changing. "The right use of previous test data is always a key and critical item within Barcelona preparation. There is usually a large change of track conditions between the last test and race event, when temperatures start to heat up.” Tyres have been a key issue surrounding Toyota’s 2006 performance, and once again the Spanish Grand Prix will put all theirs, and Bridgestone’s, homework to the test. “We have especially learned from the past how to handle the tyre choice and take into account the expected track evolution. It leads to two tyre specifications which are more similar than on other tracks where no test data are available.’

The main area which surrounds the Spanish Grand Prix is aerodynamics because of the fast straights and flowing corners. Toyota will have to have a very effective aero package this weekend if they are to overtake or defend their position when at full throttle. “Otherwise, brakes play little role in Barcelona, which is mainly about aerodynamic efficiency of the package and we will be looking to have the best package taking all elements into consideration."