At just 51-seconds, Symmons Plains has the quickest lap on the V8 Supercars calendar, and with less than a second separating the field, the TEKNO Autosports driver said team’s attention is on qualifying.
“We’re focussing on setting up the Darrell Lea STIX/Lucas Oil Commodore for qualifying, because it will determine the end result,” Van Gisbergen said.
“It’s so close. There’s only a couple of tenths between everyone, so when you improve your lap time by even half a tenth, you jump up the order.
“It’s a simple track, but very technical. You really need to have a good car all round because every corner is a different style.”
The SuperSprint format features two-60km dashes on Saturday and a 200km race on Sunday.
Van Gisbergen admits Saturday’s races don’t provide much opportunity to pass, but he’ll be in his element during Sunday’s 85-lapper.
“Saturday’s races are so short, and it’s quite a hard track to pass at, so there’s going to be no passing. A good qualifying result will convert into a result,” he said.
“I don’t think anyone is a fan of shorter races. They just end up becoming processional because everyone has the same pace and grip.
“There’s a lot more going on in in the longer races. It involves the team more because of strategy, and it’s when you get real racing. It’s more interesting from the driver’s seat, as well as for the fans.”
The tight, 2.4km track also has two of the biggest stops in V8 Supercars, at the turn four hairpin, and the end of the back straight.
“They’re hard to get right because you’re on the brakes for so long. It’s vital to get your brake marker and balance right ” Van Gisbergen said.
“The approach to the hairpin can make or break a lap. Getting it wrong really hurts you, and a lot of guys spear off because they brake late and cant turn in properly.
“The best passing opportunity is at the end of the back straight, so you’re at risk if you don’t get a good run out of turn four.”
The Tasmania SuperSprint is the second round of the V8 Supercars Championship and takes place at Symmons Plains Raceway, near Launceston Tasmania.
