Latest crash tests and shakedown successful for Virgin!

The new Virgin car, the VR-01, passed its final mandatory crash tests a few hours before its track debut at the Silverstone circuit the day before yesterday. The design from the Wirth Research offices was unveiled to the public via the Internet on Wednesday, followed by two shakedown days before testing in Jerez, Spain next week.

The team confirmed that the car passed its rear impact test on the night from Tuesday to Wednesday and that the FIA is perfectly satisfied: “We are thrilled to see that the VR-01 meets the FIA’s testing requirements,” said Nick Wirth. “We are all gathered for our shakedown before heading to Jerez to start three weeks of testing. Everyone is eager to see the VR-01 on track.”

Precisely, the single-seater headed to the Silverstone circuit for the first time this Thursday. It was the German, Timo Glock, who carried out this British shakedown.

« After 10 difficult months, all the commitment and determination have finally paid off, » continued Wirth, technical director of Virgin. « This Thursday was the big reveal, but the program was really interesting on Friday with a full day of track evaluation with both Timo Glock and Lucas di Grassi. »

The German was thrilled to be entrusted with the launch of a new car: « It was a fantastic moment for the whole team and for me to see the VR-01 come to life. It’s great to be back in a racing car. »