Arena and Chilton test LPG in Spain

Arena and Tom Chilton have tested an LPG powered Ford Focus in Spain as they evaluate a switch to the alternative fuel. Chilton spent two days at Guadix testing the Focus with LPG power, while teammate Tom Onslow-Cole concentrated on developing the rear suspension on the Team AON’s petrol powered Focus.

“Obviously we’re always looking for anything which could provide us with a competitive edge,” said Team Principal Mike Earle to the Official BTCC website. “Also in these economically difficult times we have to consider any commercial benefits as well.

“In both of these areas LPG may be an option for us, but it’s early days in our evaluation process. An engine has been running on the dyno, but this is the first time we’ve tried it in the car. After running it for two days the results have been encouraging, but not conclusive.”

Team AON will run both LPG and petrol powered versions of the Ford in two weeks time back in the UK as they continue to evaluate a switch alongside engine development partner Mountune.

For Onslow-Cole it was his first chance to get behind the wheel of the Focus since October’s final round of the season.

“The car was good at the end of last season, but now it’s incredible,” said the Surrey racer to the BTCC website. “I can’t believe how much work the team has done over the winter. All the development has not only made the Focus quicker, the way it handles now is a race driver’s dream and that makes it great fun.”