The V8 Supercars have kicked off their American adventure, with Holden driver Fabian Coulthard fastest in opening practice for the weekend’s four races at the Austin 400.
The 30-minute session gave drivers their first taste of the 3.7km Circuit of the Americas, a stunning purpose-built facility featuring several elevation changes.
New Zealander Coulthard set a fastest lap of 1min 34.3942sec, having been one of two drivers who had previously driven on the track in a V8 during a promotional visit last month.
Nissan driver James Moffat was second fastest – half a second slower than Coulthard – with Shane van Gisbergen third quickest in a Holden.
Series leader Jamie Whincup was well down – 27th fastest of the 28 cars.
But Whincup’s Holden did more laps than any other in the session, suggesting reconnaissance rather than speed was on his mind.
The most spectacular incident was when Holden driver Jonathon Webb blew his engine late in the session – smoke billowing from the car as it speared off track.
Extra practice sessions have been scheduled to allow drivers to learn the new track, with four sessions throughout the day ahead of qualifying and two races on Sunday (AEST).
The other two races will be held on Monday (AEST).