OLIVER Webb sat behind the wheel of his new team’s car for the first time during a test in France.

And his first impression of German outfit ByKolles Racing’s challenger for the forthcoming World Endurance Championship campaign was a positive one.

“It was a great two days,” he said.

“I had a chance to acclimatise, and we trialled some parts that worked well.

“There was an opportunity to run the car during a night session too.”

Webb’s best lap around a 3.8km configuration at Circuit Paul Ricard, near Marseille, was a 1.43.236, just a few seconds adrift of LMP1 cars prepared by factory giants Audi, Porsche and Toyota.

ByKolles’ machine was also significantly quicker than rivals in the LMP2 category.

Webb added: “It’s a whole new beast, and a challenge, but we’re ready for the opening round at Silverstone.

“I’m excited to be starting the season in front of British fans at track I’ve a huge amount of fondness for.”

The first race, to be run over six hours, is scheduled for this Sunday.

Webb will be joined there by co-drivers Simon Trummer and Pierre Kaffer, who sat out last week’s pre-season test.

“I’m convinced Oli will be an asset,” said Boris Bermes, ByKolles’ director of race operations.

“He fits perfectly with his new teammates in terms of character and his approach will help us to continue the progress we made last year.”

He helped Team Sard Morand, based in Switzerland, to fifth place overall in the FIA Endurance Trophy for LMP2 class teams in last year’s championships.