Force India: This is just the start...

Force India chairman and managing director, Vijay Mallya has said that the Silverstone-based outfit enjoyed a 'fruitful' test this week at Jerez.

The outfit completed over 2,600 kilometres - more than eight race distances - during its four-day programme working through an 'extensive programme' of chassis development, evaluation of the new 2008 standard electronics package and testing the 2009 'slick' development Bridgestone tyres for the first time.

During that time the former Spyker/Midland/Jordan squad utilised six different drivers, including veterans Giancarlo Fisichella and Ralf Schumacher, as well as Christian Klien, Franck Montagny and on the final day, Roldan Rodriguez and Giedo van der Garde.

"The test has been a very fruitful one for the team," Mallya confirmed, when asked to sum up the week. "Not only have we demonstrated the strong potential of the team by attracting six highly talented drivers to test for us, it's also been very motivating for the team to have the benefit of their experience to help develop the car.

"This week has had a very positive impact on the motivation of the mechanics, engineers and all involved and has shown the sporting community that we are serious about what Force India wants to achieve in Formula 1.

"Thank you to all the drivers who contributed so much and to the hard work of the team for making it such a productive event. It's just the start of many interesting projects."

The team will now return to its Silverstone HQ to focus on next season's Force India challenger.