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The Russian Bears team that run the LADA factory squad are now based close to Zolder, meaning that the challenging Belgian track is the ideal venue for testing and development.
LADA introduced the Priora model in Porto last month, where James Thompson joined the team to drive the new car alongside two 110 2.0 machines for Jaap van Lagen and Kirill Ladygin. From the next round in Oschersleben the team is due to race three Priora cars.
During a recent test in Zolder, Thompson drove the Priora while van Lagen took the wheel of the 110, in order to assess the most recent developments to the new car. The latest evolutions to the Priora concern the suspension. As a result of these developments, Thompson built up more confidence with the car and was able to adapt it better to his driving style.
Van Lagen concentrated on the general set-up in preparation for the next races in Oschersleben and Imola.
Thompson will be forced to miss Oschersleben due to his commitments in the Australian V8 Supercar championship, which were already in place before he signed for Lada. He will be replaced by team principal Viktor Shapovalov.
“It was an interesting test and we completed a lot of useful work. Zolder is a very convenient solution as it is located just 30 minutes away from our new workshop in Grobbendonk. Over the day we were able to try out different solutions, which showed a lot of potential. We will continue now to work hard on development in order to keep on improving the car all the way to the end of the season," said Shapovalov.
The team have another test scheduled at Magny-Cours on August 22, which will focus on the engine.