So said test driver Alexander Wurz this morning, after taking McLaren’s 2002 challenger out for its first official run, following its unveiling at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya. It was not his first outing in the team’s new car, though, as the team had already carried out a secret shakedown at Silverstone on 17 January.

The MP4-17 is powered by a new Mercedes V10 engine which features a wider vee angle than last year's 75-degree unit, however the most striking element of the design is the sculptured aerodynamic lower front wishbones and front suspension. The decision to switch to Michelin rubber has created additional work for the designers, who have been evaluating the implications of changing tyre suppliers at the first test sessions of 2002 earlier this month.

Team personnel are making cautiously optimistic noises about the radical new design, however it seems David Coulthard will not drive the 2002 car until Wurz has ironed out any teething problems during pre-season testing.  DC will drive a modified 2001 model, concentrating on tyre testing, until the new car is settled.