VX Racing continues to build on its 2007 strength

With less than two months to go until the 2008 HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) kicks-off, Vauxhall completed an intense five-day test programme at Almeria.

Tom Onslow-Cole, VX Racing’s recently-signed third driver, got his first taste of the front-wheel drive Vauxhall Vectra at the Spanish circuit. Taking advantage of the mild weather, Onslow-Cole was able to gain good knowledge about his new racing car. His team-mates, reigning 2007 BTCC Champion Fabrizio Giovanardi and ex-double BTCC Champion, Matt Neal were also on-hand to provide constructive assistance.

“It was a completely new experience for me to drive the Vectra for the first time and it took me most of the first day to get comfortable with the car,” said the 20-year-old. “The car is a totally different animal to what I am used to, but a lot of fun to drive.

“Fabrizio and Matt have been really great and have not only given me tips on the car itself but also told me a lot about touring cars in general. I really enjoyed the last five days and I can’t wait to race the Vectra this season.”

The shake-down was closely followed by VX Racing’s Team Principal, Ian Harrison, who has high hopes for the talented youngster.

“Tom was testing the Vauxhall Vectra on all five days and it went absolutely fine, but he obviously has to learn more about the car before the season starts. He showed good progress from day-to-day and we completed the programme successfully.

“Fabrizio and Matt also took to the track each day to run through their commitments and the week went as smoothly as it usually does when you go testing.”