Esteban Ocon notices “massive improvements” on the partially upgraded Force India after the Mercedes protégé set the second fastest time on the opening day of the Austria test.
The GP3 race winner was only scheduled to drive the revised VJM08 on Wednesday but received a late call-up when Mercedes required Pascal Wehrlein’s services in the W06 Hybrid.
Having already run for Force India during last month’s post-Spanish Grand Prix test, Ocon was able to compared both versions of the team’s car and felt pretty buoyant about its latest charger.
“I think it is really good,” said the Frenchman. “We will have to see on a race weekend but it is very positive.
“There has been massive improvements on the car; the car was mega quick today. It was just perfect.”
Ocon also relished the chance to secure more track time as the reigning FIA Formula 3 European champion seeks to further ready himself for the demands of motor racing’s pinnacle.
“It was brilliant, thanks to Force India for the opportunity. I really enjoyed driving today. I think I did some good running to help team, gave good feedback and made most of the weather and conditions for the testing plan.”
“Getting any more mileage in an F1 car is definitely my goal. I want to get into F1, but I want to get there fully prepared. And that’s what we are doing at the moment.”
Click here for pictures from the opening day of in-season testing in Austria
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