Lotus F1 Team/LAT Photographic
Lotus driver Kimi Raikkonen believes that the E21 is a good prospect for the Australian Grand Prix, even if he does not feel that it is currently the quickest car.
Raikkonen was sixth and fourth in the opening two practice sessions in Albert Park.
"It’s good for the season to start and the car felt pretty strong out there. I don’t think we’re the fastest but it’s a good start. It was nice to have a reliable day after spending some time in the garage during testing," said Raikkonen.
"The track was as I remembered it and there were no surprises from it or the car. We’ll have to see what happens tomorrow with qualifying as maybe it will be a bit cooler. I’m happy so far this weekend."
Romain Grosjean also expressed his confidence in the E21.
"The track felt good and the car felt better. It took a while for the grip to come to us, but you expect that on a street circuit. We made good progress with set-up on the car over both sessions and I think there’s more to come which is promising," said the French driver.
Technical director James Allison also expressed confidence.
"There’s still work to be done, but we’re certainly running with the leading group which bodes well for the rest of the weekend," he said.
