The first test of the Chevron GR8 complete with full bodywork was held at the Anglesey Circuit today. In cool but dry conditions, the Cosworth 2.0 litre YD powered mid-engined competition coupe covered over 100 miles - which is equivalent to three Chevron GR8 Challenge Series race distances, the competition for which the new car has been conceived.

According to Chevron's official report, while previous testing has concentrated on proving the integration of the engine, Hewland gearbox and Cosworth electronics package, together with basic chassis dynamics, Friday's Anglesey session was all about fine-tuning the set-up and amassing data.

The next phases of testing will focus on tyres and aerodynamic refinement, and Chevron Racing Cars director Helen Bashford-Malkie is confident the cars will be ready for the start of the new series at Silverstone on May 8/9.

"When design got under way in earnest early last October, we knew the programme was tight and allowed little or no slack. It was therefore very reassuring to have the development car running complete with bodywork on schedule," she says.

"We are making excellent progress. Engine and transmission performance is spot-on. Now that we have passed the next testing milestone, the benchmarks are all in place for tyre testing and maximising aerodynamic efficiency.

"Our engineering team and suppliers have been absolutely fantastic. Thanks to their efforts, the first new Chevron coupe for forty years has finally out on the track.

"Customers who have already placed orders for Chevron GR8 Challenge Series cars - and drivers and teams interested in doing so - are obviously keen to get behind the wheel. Opportunities for private testing are imminent.

"The production line is up to speed. Seven chassis are ready for bodywork and others are close to completion ready for wiring looms."

Even before the car turned a wheel, Chevron Racing Cars says it had received orders for seven Chevron GR8s. The total includes a car for this year's Britcar championship. In addition, the organisers of the British GT, GT Cup and V de V championships are inviting Chevron GR8 entries say the car's makers.

Photo Credit: Rachel Bourne - www.bournephotographic.co.uk