The V8 Supercars have kicked off their American adventure, with Auckland driver Fabian Coulthard fastest in opening practice for the weekend's four races at the Austin 400.
The 30-minute session gave drivers their first taste of the 3.7km Circuit of the Americas, a stunning purpose-built facility featuring several elevation changes.
Holden driver Coulthard set a fastest lap of one min 34.3942 seconds, half a second faster than Nissan's James Moffat - with another New Zealander, Shane van Gisbergen, third quickest in a Holden.
Series leader Jamie Whincup was well down - 27th fastest of the 28 cars.
Extra practice sessions have been scheduled to allow drivers to learn the new track, with four sessions throughout the day ahead of qualifying and two races on Sunday.
The other two races will be held on Monday.