Marc Gene believes the new A1 GP car is set to provide enjoyable racing when it makes its competition debut, the Spaniard speaking after sampling the machine in testing at Gaudix.

The Scuderia Ferrari Formula 1 test driver follows Andrea Bertolini and Patrick Friesacher in driving the car, which is based on the Ferrari F2004 Formula 1 chassis and powered by a 600bhp V8 engine.

Helping to complete half a season's distance in the car over five days, Gene believes it has all the ingredients to maintain the exciting racing the 'World Cup of Motorsport' has established in its three-year existence.

“It's an interesting car and I had a lot of fun. It's not an F1 car but it's not intended to be one; it will produce exciting racing, allows overtaking, and is an extreme drive.” However, the majority of the testing has been undertaken by Andrea Bertolini, while Patrick Friesacher has also been behind the wheel.

“Feedback has been good with them finding the car well balanced, the tyres have been working well and the gearshift and electronics have been reliable; all in all they have found it an extremely driveable car.”

Meanwhile, A1 GP General Manager, John Wickham, has pronounced himself happy with the car's reliability following 3,500km of testing, although he admits there is still some way to go before it is completely ready.

“The car has now completed about 3,500 km testing, equivalent to about half a season's mileage, and is looking reliable. We have spent the majority of time working on the engine and control systems but there's also been work on the tyres and chassis so there has been no down time.

“There have been a number of small issues, which is to be expected from a completely new package, but there is nothing we can't resolve in the coming tests so we are happy with how things are progressing.”