JULY 22, 2004

GP2 prototype runs

The prototype GP2 chassis ran for the first time this week at Paul Ricard with Renault F1 test driver Franck Montagny driving. The car, built by Dallara, is to be tested in the course of the next few months while the organizers of the series try to attract cars for the 2005 season. At the moment most of the Formula 3000 teams are continuing to wait and see what is going to happen with the rules package and with the costs as they believe the current prices and the payment schedules are not very realistic. The Dallara will be powered by a 4-litre V8 engine built by the Mader company, which is now owned by Mecachrome, although this will be badged as a Renault. The organizers are hoping that by agreeing to keep the rules the same for three years they will find enough teams willing to make the investment.

Time will tell.