"However we learnt something at
Snetterton with the new 2008 aero package that I've been running on my car which features a new front bumper and a few other changes. The new package improves the aerodynamics of the car and it doesn't slide in the corners as much, which in turn means it is better on its tyres. That is one of the biggest improvements we have found and now we just need to work on getting the best from the tyres for qualifying runs as I think that is somewhere that the diesel SEAT will be strong, although it might eat its tyres on the longer runs.
"Now we are just waiting to get the 2008-specification engine which we'll have in time for
Brands Hatch. Being a new engine, there will be some work to do on that before the season starts but we should have it all sorted ready for the opening rounds."
The next test for the team will come at Rockingham next week during the annual BTCC media day and Chilton said he was confident that the Civic would run well at the high-speed Northamptonshire venue, with the Team Dynamics-run squad working hard to ensure the car is right at the sharp end of the times.
"I think Rockingham will suit the car with its shorter wheel base and we'll run well there," he said. "I know I was part of a 1-2 with Vauxhall last year and the Vectra is a much bigger car, but Halfords had its problems at Rockingham last season and I think we will be right there on the times.
"The boys are working so hard to get everything ready for media day as it's a big day for the teams as everything has to go to plan. You don't want to get there and then suffer mechanical issues when all the press are watching as they'll just say 'Oh they have a car that isn't reliable'.
"There is a lot of pressure for that day to be trouble-free but we've done a couple of tests now that has allowed us to put plenty of miles on the car and in getting ready for media day, a test at Brands Hatch and then the opening rounds, its keeping all the boys flat out back at base."
