The 2008 GP2 series revs into action this weekend with a host of drivers hoping to become stars of the future.

Now in its fourth season, the series begins in Barcelona with practice and qualifying on Friday, before the races proper get underway on Saturday and Sunday.

Britain's Mike Conway will be among those hoping to set the early pace. The Trident Racing driver was selected by Honda to test-drive F1 cars for Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello after his performance in pre-season, and will be among the favourites for an opening podium finish.

Conway will be joined by team-mate Ho Pin Tung, who arrives fresh from his debut GP2 Asia Series, and will be hoping to benefit from the experience.

"In a single-make series, the choice of drivers is vital to determine the competitive level of a team," said Maurizio Salvadori, owner of Trident Racing.

"We're pleased to field Mike for this year's 2008 GP2 Series. He'll be partnered by Chinese driver Ho-Pin Tung, forming a well-mixed couple that will enable us to score great results."

As with F1, GP2 cars are constantly evolving, with new technological developments appearing each year.

"The main innovation this year, speaking from a technical point of view, is certainly represented by the new car, even closer to Formula One in terms of performance and safety standards," said Salvadori.

"Thanks to the cars' specifications, the GP2 Series is definitely the best developmental championship to prepare for Formula One, and that goes for drivers as well as for the other components of the team."

Salvadori's Trident team finished 10th in the overall standings last season, with 35 points and one race win for Pastor Maldonado in Monte Carlo.

"Our goal is always try to improve last year's performances, and try to enter the top-three in both the drivers' standings with Mike and in the teams' classification," he said.

"My personal goal is to try repeat the outstanding win scored in 2007 at Monte Carlo, and sweep our home event at Monza, that will host the 2008 grand finale."

Will Tidey / Eurosport