Supercar series pacesetter Jamie Whincup will adopt a safety-first approach as he nurses his lead in the series ahead of this weekend's penultimate round in Launceston.
Whincup is poised to wrap up the V8 championship title with two rounds remaining and has a successful history at Symmons Plains,
but has apologised ahead of the meeting for his cautious strategy.
"We've done well here in the past and have some great results behind us from the last few rounds and we're looking to keep that ball rolling," Whincup said.
"I do have to apologise though - this weekend there will be none of my usual win or bust style.
"We're in a solid championship position and the penultimate round is about maximising points and opportunities ahead of Oran Park.
"The team has gelled very well over the past five rounds, it's important that we maintain this spirited intensity to finish off the year on a high note."
Whincup's Team Vodafone Ford heads the standings with 2916 points from the Ford of Mark Winterbottom (2729), Garth Tander's Holden (2624) and Craig Lowndes (2367) in the second Team Vodafone car.
Whincup has amassed a streak of seven consecutive race wins and will match the record of eight, set by Lowndes in his debut season in 1996 if he wins the first race at Symmons Plains.
The 25-year-old won in Tasmania last year and said the crucial factor at the tight circuit was qualifying well.
"There's limited passing opportunities here so qualifying is they key," Whincup said.
Lowndes, meanwhile, will make his 150th V8 Supercar start this weekend and is aiming to continue the outfit's string of wins.
The team have claimed every race win at the past three rounds and Lowndes said his plan was to make his 150th start a special one.
"We're looking to keep the speed and momentum going as we head to Symmons Plains this week, the team had a good run here last year and we're confident we can maintain this form," Lowndes said.
"I'll be doing everything I can to help Jamie, but also working hard to keep at Garth Tander for third place."
- AAP
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