McLaren’s problematic start to 2018 has continued on the opening day of the second test with electrical problems hampering the MCL33.
Driver Stoffel Vandoorne has twice caused red flags at the time of writing and has had to be pushed back to the garage on a third occasion, following the initial installation lap, as the power unit shutdown.
Autosport claims the issues are related to the battery linked to the new-for-2018 Renault engine and could be the result of cooling issues already noted from the first week of running in Barcelona.
With temperatures in Spain back to a more normal level, the McLaren was seen was three slots on the engine cover to allow hot air towards the back to escape, though scorch marks were still visible through the papaya orange livery.
These new setbacks follow the loose wheelnut and exhaust clip problems which interrupted running last week along with the poor weather that hampered all teams.
On Tuesday, several have already reached the 100-lap mark in a bid to take advantage of the improved conditions, however, so far Vandoorne has only 38 to his name, the lowest of all.