Van Gisbergen, who has already won four races this year, three at the Australian Grand Prix, and one at his home event last month in New Zealand, admitted that the team has made progress ahead of this weekend’s Perth 400.
“We had a good test at Queensland Raceway,” Van Gisbergen said.
“With track time at events now very limited, any additional running we can do is absolutely crucial to developing the car and moving forward.
“We found some additional setup options that we think should work.
“Overall, the one-day test gave us the best opportunity to prepare for our assault this weekend at Barbagallo.”
TEKNO Autosport’s Team Principal Jonathon Webb, who will co-drive the VIP Petfoods/Lucas Oil Commodore with Van Gisbergen in the annual long distance endurances races later this year, hailed progress made with the VF Commodore, citing the team’s new partnership with Lucas Oil Products Australia as a key factor.
“We’re proud of what we’ve has achieved so far, with four wins, including three at the Australian Grand Prix and another in New Zealand, and one pole position. But there’s more to come, and we’re keen to unlock more speed from the car.
“Our new partnership with Lucas Oil Products started in stunning style, with a win on debut at Pukekohe – and it’s a good reflection of the quality of their products and how we’re already working together.
“In terms of development, the recent test was great in terms of working on some ideas for Perth and beyond. It should set us up well for the future.”
Van Gisbergen made solid progress in Perth last year, with a ninth, seventh and sixth place respectively across the weekend’s races – and Barbagallo is a circuit the New Zealander enjoys racing at.
“The event in Perth is fantastic,” Van Gisbergen said.
“Everyone gets behind it, and the circuit itself makes for a tough, technical lap. Qualifying will be very competitive, so we’ll have to bring our A-game.”
Tekno Autosport’s Shane van Gisbergen will be aiming for top results at this weekend’s Perth 400, with the cars on-track from this Friday.
