SVG red hot in Supercars practice

Shane van Gisbergen has set a new practice lap record at Symmons Plains as the Supercars field heats up for a new qualifying format in Tasmania.

Practice times now count towards seedings for a three-stage qualifying process for the weekend's races.

Van Gisbergen blasted his way to the top of the timing charts on Friday with a 50.7894 second lap on the island circuit.

"It's amazing. We were faster than last year on a slower tyre ... a good way to start," the New Zealander told Fox Sports.

Scott Pye was second quickest, with Fabian Coulthard and Jamie Whincup rounding out the top four.

The heavyweights were lighting up the track given the new qualifying system for this meet and at Perth next month.

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