January 12, 2004
The Mapes-VO Team launched there new test car today, in a private test at the Silverstone circuit. With only Matt Maple & Peter-VO present the team conducted a few short installation laps on high fuel in order to evaluate the new design, and get the car running smoothly for Barcelona this week.

The car passed initial checks and although only completed 10 laps, Van Oostende was able to set times in the 1.20's area even though running 25 laps of fuel on board. This is a good start as the team did not set the car up for the windy conditions and are hopeful of good progress in Barcelona.

Recent deals with Honda & Michelin reaffirmed the teams desire for success in 2004. With a retainment of the race driver line-up, and the addition including test drivers Tim Duits & Matt Hunt, the team aim for a massive leap in performance compared to the MVO-03C used at the back end of last season.

With new sponsor 7UP the team has a major backer, and are hoping for a long and successful relationship with the soft drink supplier. Also they confirmed Van Oostende's contract for the 2004 season as a test driver, where he will feedback important information about a car he helped to design.

The team will be in action at all four days of the Spain test, and some average photo's were taken by maple which is presented in this release.