High-speed workout for new Mustang

DJR Team Penske and Ford Performance have learnt more about their new Mustang Supercar in a second test at the fast and flowing Phillip Island circuit.

Today’s running is the car’s second outing following its first homologation test day at Queensland Raceway on Wednesday.

It will be followed by private straightline evaluation running next week, finalising preparation for Supercars’ aerodynamic testing in early December.

The images and video released from Queensland Raceway and Phillip Island show the Mustang in a variety of aero configurations.

Two different specifications of rear wing endplates – including a jumbo-sized version seen publicly for the first time today - and an array of front spoiler iterations have been tested.

To be homologated for competition, the car will need to fit within the same total downforce and drag parameters as the incumbents.

Ford Performance’s Sriram Pakkam, who has led the aerodynamic work on the Mustang, was again present to oversee today’s testing.

He said it was important to gain a greater understanding of the Mustang on Phillip Island’s long, loaded corners, before the car’s aero package is locked in.

Like on Wednesday, DJRTP’s championship leader Scott McLaughlin and team-mate Fabian Coulthard shared the driving duties.

“After the initial work we undertook at Queensland Raceway on Wednesday, it was beneficial to be able to continue that validation process under the high aerodynamic loads we saw at Phillip Island today,” said Pakkam.

“It’s valuable to have the ability to spend a day getting a better understanding of real world performance under these types of conditions.

"Both Scott and Fabian’s feedback is vital to how we approach the set-up of this car, and they have been fantastic throughout the process.”

Added McLaughlin: “Being a part of this program is very special, but testing the new car here at Phillip Island only adds to that feeling.

“This circuit is one of my favourites, and I always enjoy the challenge of driving here. It was fantastic being able to put Mustang through its paces on the Island.”

McLaughlin has previous experience developing new Supercars, having helped the category’s Car of the Future testing, and been part of the Volvo’s homologation.

For Coulthard though, it’s the first time he’s played a key role in such a program.

“Working through this process with the support of Ford has been fantastic, and it’s great for the sport to have Mustang on the grid next year,” said Coulthard.

“Being a part of the program is a privilege, and I can’t wait to race it in 2019.”

As was the case on Wednesday, Tickford Racing also had a presence at the test, taking lessons while the build of its Mustangs continue.