RML managed to survive sub-zero temperatures and overnight snow to complete the first shakedown of its new Mazda-powered Lola B08/80 LMP2 Coupe during two-days of running at Snetterton

The long-range forecast had threatened heavy snow for both days, but the team's faith was rewarded with at least one perfect day. Wednesday was dry and bright, although bitterly cold, and Brazilian Thomas Erdos managed sessions in both the morning and afternoon as the team gave the new look car is first run – with the livery now featuring Mazda's corporate blue. Thursday provided only half a day of running due to snow and fog.

“Under the circumstances, we achieved some very good running, and the car looks gorgeous!” Erdos said. “It was too cold to get any real warmth into the tyres, and they never felt as if they were biting the road, but we learned a great deal about the car. Now I'm just looking forward to being allowed to run at full throttle.”

In addition to the new Mazda 2-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged engine, the car was also featuring its new-for-2009 aerodynamic package, which was revealed last week by Lola.

“My experience with the engine has been very reassuring indeed,” Erdos continued. “It feels very responsive, picks up power earlier than the old engine, and then kicks out more torque. Bearing in mind we run a smaller restrictor this year, that's very encouraging and a very positive first impression.”

Team-mate Mike Newton was unable to drive in the test as he continue to recover from a viral infection.