Palmer amazed with Mercedes and Ferrari mileage

Renault's Jolyon Palmer says he's astonished by the sheer mileage that Mercedes and Ferrari have achieved in the first two days of pre-season testing.

The Brit was forced to sit out Tuesday morning as Renaulot awaited new parts for its R.S.17 but completed 53 laps as he ran through a complete program in the afternoon.

The mileage was far cry from Mercedes and Ferrari's run rate which Palmer has described as "impressive".

"I can’t understand how they’re doing so many laps,” Palmer said.

"Day one and day two when the car’s completely new, different regulations. That’s impressive, especially when not only us but you look at the rest of the field, really, and everyone’s doing 50 or 60 laps in a day.

"That’s impressive, I don’t think it’s a surprise that they’re going to be near the front. Red Bull we can expect will be there or thereabouts. For the rest I have no idea."

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Looking back on his own day of running, Palmer was happy with the work that had been accomplished.

"I've really enjoyed driving the car today," he said.

"The downforce is a massive change; it's completely different from last year. It takes a little bit of getting used to but it's actually a lot more enjoyable to drive.

"We had a productive afternoon with 53 laps. It's just a shame not to have ran in the morning but we learnt a lot regardless and we aim to have a fuller day on Wednesday."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.