Kovalainen gets first taste of KERS

On the second day at Jerez, Heikki Kovalainen could enjoy KERS for the first time as he took place in the MP4-23K. Pedro De La Rosa meanwhile proved that even with a new 2009 nose and front wing, he is still reasonably competitive as he was only a second slower than fastest man Buemi in the Toro Rosso.

Heikki got his first taste of slick tyres, low downforce and KERS when he began his 2009 testing programme in the MP4-23K car. He was on the pace immediately, adapted very well and was able to provide good feedback to the engineers.

The team's test driver Pedro De La Rosa focused on the 23A, concentrating on aerodynamic work with the team’s first attempt at running a 2009-configuration nose. The evaluation was extremely positive. Tomorrow, the drivers switch cars and conclude the three-day programme.

Drivers: Heikki Kovalainen & Pedro de la Rosa
Location: Jerez
Track Length: 4.428km
Weather: Damp in the morning from overnight rain before drying and remaining sunny but cold for the rest of the day.
Track temperature: Maximum track temperature, 20°C
Air temperature: Maximum ambient temperature, 15°C
Laps run today: Heikki 64; Pedro 78