Mercedes and Michael Schumacher have been fast over a single lap at the start of the season, but are yet to translate the pace into strong results in the race. Reuters Photo
"It was a trouble-free day, and I am quite happy with how our car is handling so far here," said Schumacher.
"As a team, we are a lot stronger in certain areas this season, and we have a much better base to work from"
Hamilton, twice a winner of the Chinese GP, completed only seven laps in the morning but topped the timing screens in 1:37.106. With a damp start to the session after overnight rain, the Briton was happy to save a set of tyres for the race.