Space age McLaren puts Hamilton streets ahead

But Lewis has also arrived in Valencia already armed with vital information that will give him an edge over those with more limited resources.

Barney Hassell, McLaren's head of vehicle dynamics, said: "We started off by creating a track model for our computer simulation tools, using the outline plans of the Valencia circuit and checking them against satellite photos.

"Then we factored in the location, type of kerbs and other details we obtain from a full survey we've commissioned. We also worked in such aspects as the likely track temperature and used ground-level photos to provide detailed data.

"It's all about building up as detailed a profile as possible of the circuit. We've run computer simulations to work out likely lap times and to establish the racing line.

"We've checked the downforce level requirement, and from there can determine braking severity, cooling requirements and tyre operating conditions to make sure that our car development schedule is able to provide optimised components."

Heikki Kovalainen, Hamilton's team-mate and winner of the Hungarian Grand Prix three weeks ago, will also benefit from McLaren's pre-race planning. But he stressed that a street circuit like Valencia, where the cars will be racing between concrete walls at anticipated speeds of up to 191mph, still requires a cautious approach.

He said: "You can't start out at 100 per cent. The track has very poor grip on Friday, so you have to build up little by little and as your confidence increases you can start braking later.

"It's very exciting driving on the streets. You can hear the sound of the cars much more, it's like driving in a box. But there's no margin for error."