Toyota engine boost for Jordan

Jordan take delivery of their first batch of Toyota engines this week with their work cut out to be ready for the Formula One season starting on March 6.

Luca Marmorini, head of Toyota's engine department, said however that he was sure they would be in good shape for Melbourne.

"The decision (to supply Jordan) was made a little bit late for us, so that means it is a big amount of work with a lot of uncertainties," the Italian told Reuters.

"I think it will be a struggle for them and for us," he added. "We started in the middle of November needing to be ready in Melbourne with a car. So if we go there and the performance is good, it will be a fantastic technical result for our group and Eddie."

Jordan aim to roll out the EJ15 early next month and have two weeks of testing planned before cars and equipment have to be flown to Australia at the end of February.

The team, short of cash and fallen on hard times since they finished third in the championship in 1999, have yet to announce who will drive for them.

"We're talking to a lot of different people," said a spokeswoman.

"It's no secret that we're looking for someone who is going to attract sponsorship but there's no shortage of candidates and we are keeping our options open."

The BAR F1 team has been bought by a joint venture between engine partners Honda and majority shareholder British American Tobacco (BAT), both companies announced yesterday. BAT now own 55 per cent of BARH Limited with Japanese carmaker Honda holding the other 45 per cent.