Sebring test allows new KV teammates to work out details

Simona de Silvestro introduced Tony Kanaan to individuals associated with a sponsor as "my new teammate." Soon she'll drop the "new."

De Silvestro, who competed the previous three IZOD IndyCar Series seasons with HVM Racing, joined KV Racing Technology and Kanaan in late October for the 2013 season. They've tested the Nos. 11 and 78 cars at Barber Motorsports Park and Texas Motor Speedway in advance of closing out the year at Sebring International Raceway this week.

"It's been going pretty well," said de Silvestro, whose new livery will be unveiled in January. "The Barber test was a little strange because it was added at the last minute, but it was a really productive day and we both ended up quick and worked through some things with the cars. The Texas test was a Chevy test so we went through a whole program with them. Working with TK has been a lot of fun.

"I think we're still learning how to work together because I've never had a teammate in IndyCars and that's all new to me. Having someone right there in the seat at the same time, giving feedback and listening to what he thinks — especially on the ovals — is great. I hope to learn a lot as we develop this team, which has been working really hard. The Barber and Texas tests I was learning a lot of things, like the guys' names, and now we're starting to click. This test is important to jump-start the (2013) season."

Kanaan, who will enter his third season with KV Racing Technology, said he's enjoyed the camaraderie with the crews through the three test sessions and looks forward to a productive 2013 season.

"We're still getting to know each other, but she's a very easy-going person so I don't see any problems," he said. "Everything is new to her. She's fast and finally now she's got to a team where she has the potential to show her talent."

This past weekend, Kanaan joined Helio Castroneves and Rubens Barrichello in competing in the final round of the Brazilian stock car series. He also drove in the penultimate race last month.

"It was a good experience to race in front of the (Brazilian) fans again at Interlagos, a place where I grew up," he said.