Honda boss Ross Brawn is confident that the improvements introduced in last week's Barcelona test will give the revitalised a squad a shot at the points in this weekend's Spanish Grand Prix.
With many testing 2009 packages and slick tyres at Catalunya, some teams were unsure how representative the test times were.
But Brawn is certain that Honda took a real step forward in Spain, and expects that to be reflected in this weekend's results.
"The team has made good progress at each race so far this season, gaining in confidence and performing better on each occasion," he said.
"Our recent development push on the RA108 with a new aerodynamic package, suspension modifications and driveability improvements showed pleasing results during the four-day test this week.
"I expect these developments to add to our competitiveness and improve our points scoring potential at the Spanish Grand Prix and the races to follow."
Jenson Button's chance to try the development parts was marred by rain on the final test day, but he is encouraged by the signs from the dry running that team-mates Rubens Barrichello and Alex Wurz achieved.
"Although I was not able to complete much mileage at the test this week due to the weather, the team had three days evaluating the new upgrades, so I am confident that we are in good shape," Button said.
"We hope to be challenging for a top ten qualifying position again which would put us in position for a strong race."
He added that Honda's promising start to 2008 had reinvigorated the team after a dismal 2007 season.
"Our performance over the first three races showed a steady rate of improvement which was encouraging for the whole team and has given us renewed confidence in the car," Button said.
Source: ITV.com/F1
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