MAX Chilton's GP2 Asia Series came to a disappointing end as mechanical failures denied him any chance of a good result in the final races of the series in Bahrain.

A brake disc shattering in the only practice session limited the 18-year-old to just six flying laps in which to learn the new Sakhir circuit layout.

The failure also hampered the Barwa Addax team in their efforts to establish the best set-up for the car.

He was consequently put on the back foot for Friday's qualifying session and could only manage 15th place.

Chilton ran strong in 12th place before the hydraulic gearbox system failed. He struggled on, but the car became increasingly difficult to drive, eventually forcing him to retire close to the end. He did get classified as a finisher though, in 19th place.

Having to start Sunday's shorter sprint race from close to the back of the grid was always going to limit his chances of a good finish, but the Norwood Hill ace battled well, getting up to 15th place by the end.

Chilton was philosophical afterwards and looked forward to the main European series.

He said: "My aim in the Asian Series was to get some experience before driving in the main championship and I've achieved that."

"The Bahrain events have been disappointing because we didn't really get the car competitive enough and I've suffered with mechanical problems.

"It's been a big step up for me from doing Formula Three and I've enjoyed it. I know what's needed to have a good season and I'm looking forward to testing ready for the main series."

Chilton will drive for the Ocean Racing Technology team in the European Championship and will start the test programme at Paul Ricard in France in under two weeks' time. Further testing in April will follow at Barcelona before the championship gets underway, supporting the Spanish F1 Grand Prix on May 9.