Scott Malvern - Photo Credit: Jakob Ebrey Photography
The 2011 Dunlop MSA Formula Ford Champion Scott Malvern gave the new-for-2012 chassis its first public outing at Brands Hatch last weekend with the initial impressions positive. Malvern's demonstration runs came during the Kent circuit's traditional Formula Ford Festival, which he also won, beating Steijn Schothorst in the final.
The new-generation Formula Ford uses a production-based 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost direct injection, turbocharged engine, limited to producing around 165PS and 220Nm, and mated to a six-speed sequential transmission with mechanical shift mechanism.
With safety prominent in everyone's thoughts, more so than ever after the events in the U.S. last weekend, the all-new Formula Ford is the first racing car of steel spaceframe construction in the world to comply with the FIA's rigorous safety standards and receive its stamp of approval.
After the initial shakedown, Malvern was impressed with the feeling of the car and is excited to improve it ahead of next year.
“The new car is really very good. It's nicely balanced and feels good to drive straight out of the box, with loads of potential. I'm looking forward to helping with the development and fine-tuning the details.”
The festival also saw Geva Racing become the first team make public its plans to buy a 2012 Formula Ford EcoBoost. The Dutch squad will run at least one Mygale car in the British series next season.
Sam Roach of championship promoter RacingLine is delighted with the news and expects more teams to follow soon in going public with their 2012 plans.
“The new Formula Ford was well received, not least by Scott, who thoroughly enjoyed driving it. It is great news that Geva Racing will be running in Britain next year with the new car. Many of our other teams, plus some newcomers, are discussing their orders with Mygale, Van Diemen and Ray and there will be further announcements in the coming weeks.”
