ERC Open stars Joan Vinyes and Alberto Monarri tested their Suzuki Swift R4lly S machines in Spain earlier this week, enjoying sunshine and dry conditions in readiness for the first asphalt round of the season.
The session marked the team’s first outing with Michelin tyres on a sealed surface, having swapped from Hankook following the 2021 season.
Speaking to FIAERC.com, Vinyes said the early feedback was positive.
“We had a good test,” said Vinyes. “This was the first time we have tried the Michelin tyres on Tarmac, and honestly the sensation is very good.
“Last year we were running with Hankooks. The feeling is very different to the old tyres, but I think we can win some speed with the Michelins,” he added.
Vinyes currently leads the championship by nine points over team-mate Monarri, with Latvian driver Mārtiņš Sesks on 24 points behind in third.
Sesks actually outpaced Vinyes on the opening two rounds, but his Andorran rival took home maximum points as he didn’t register to score at the Fafe season opener.
Vinyes took overall victory on the Canary Islands fixture back in 2005 and hopes to be on the winning pace in a fortnight’s time.
“It's a very important rally for us and the team, so of course we want to do well," he explained.
"Mārtiņš Sesks was very fast on gravel in the two first rallies, but on [Rally Islas] Canarias, I want to win.
“It's important for us and our championship, and I think that on Tarmac, the Suzuki is a very good car.“
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