The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team have continued their preparations for the 2008 season by starting their testing session in Valencia.

Heikki Kovalainen and Pedro de la Rosa completed 218 laps of the Ricardo Tormo circuit in warm sunshine.

Getting some miles on the clock was the main aim for the team as the drivers get to grips with the MP4-23.

Particular focus was given to the development of the gearboxes as new rules state that gearboxes must now last for four races during the 2008 season.

Kovalainen’s best lap came in at 1m13.026 as the new driver continues his first pre-season period with Vodafone McLaren Mercedes while Pedro de la Rosa registered 1m13.163.

A large selection of Formula One drivers were testing at the Spanish track and Kovalainen and de la Rosa were fourth and fifth fastest on the day.

Lewis Hamilton, who has his sights firmly set on success with the team after signing a new deal, returns to testing today and is also scheduled to drive on the final day on Thursday.

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