Australian GP – Toyota, in top form!

After a more than disappointing 2007 season, it seems logical for Toyota to come back stronger. They may be able to do so thanks to the experience of their lead driver Jarno Trulli or the innocence and carefree attitude of their second driver Timo Glock.

Indeed, he has joined the Japanese team, albeit with difficulty since BMW was reluctant to let him go, but he is determined to make his mark within the team.

However, Toyota will need to keep an eye on the reliability of its TF108 because, in the end, this is what could pose a problem for them in 2008.

Jarno Trulli – racing driver

I am always excited by the start of a season, and this year I am undoubtedly more motivated than ever. The tests went well with the new car and we made good progress. We know the direction to take so that our work pays off. I am optimistic.

This year, the single-seater is much better. It is very different from the TF107 and for the 2008 one, we have strong potential to continue this improvement. I feel a real pleasure to be here, in Australia and particularly in Melbourne. Good weather is forecast, and the idea of encountering an enthusiastic crowd, as we know it at Albert Park, makes me more than happy.

The circuit is not the most difficult and I hope we can be competitive. I am focused on getting a good result this weekend and I think we have a real chance to score points.

Timo Glock – racing driver

« The Australian Grand Prix will be my first race for Toyota, so I am very happy. The Albert Park track is a unique circuit due to the fact that we are racing on the streets. It is not the most difficult race on the calendar for a driver. It is a special track because it is used only for the Australian Grand Prix. There are no other automotive events during the year. »

« This means that every time we go there, the track lacks grip, at least at the beginning. It is, therefore, sometimes very difficult to find the right direction to take in terms of set-up. But the situation is the same for everyone and I have Jarno by my side, who should help me a little. »

« Australians are always very enthusiastic supporters, and I can’t wait to find myself racing with them. My goal for this year is to be able to fight for points in all the races. I hope to make a good start with this meeting in Melbourne. »

Pascal Vasselon – Technical Director

« When you are a car racing enthusiast, you have to be excited about the idea of the first race. Melbourne is a very specific circuit as opposed to a number of other circuits. »

« The tarmac is very smooth, which results in a lack of grip. Therefore, the car’s balance is heavily challenged. This is a factor to consider in Melbourne and we still need to work on this aspect. We are optimistic for this weekend, especially because the second half of the winter went well. The car has been getting more and more competitive since the Bahrain tests. »

« Our goal is to finish in the points and be among the top six teams. It’s a realistic goal. »