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Hulkenberg: It feels a bit like home

Nico Hulkenberg had nothing but good things to say about the VJM05 after the first day of pre-season testing in Barcelona.

The 24-year-old had a problem free day on Tuesday as he completed 97 laps with his best effort of 1:23.440s which was only 0.175s off the pace of Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel.

Naturally the German was pleased with the opening day effort at the Circuit de Catalunya.

“We had a good day, it was a positive programme,” he said.

“We started with some aero gathering this morning, some tyre comparisons with different compounds, and then long runs this afternoon.

“Generally there were no reliability issues, so there was a very positive impression of the car and a good feeling today.”

Hulkenberg, who was also impressed with the balance of the car, admits he is starting to feel at home behind the wheel of the VJM05.

“It was pretty good, surprisingly well,” he said.

“Maybe it suits a little bit better here than Jerez. I am also getting better. It is my second day, as Jerez was my first day after a long time out of the car. Each day, each kilometre is better.”

He added: “Reliability wise, the whole picture just looks very good right now. We are bedding in right now. After lunch, I got back in and felt comfortable again. It feels a bit more like home - I am going through the sensation of that feeling. So, so far so good.”