In an effort to ensure an improved performance this season, their SA07 has incorporated a new Honda engine to increase power and reliability while substantial changes have been made to the nosebox design to improve the car’s durability during crashes.

And, after a successful winter testing programme, Aguri is confident that the team can flourish this year under the new pairing of Takuma Sato and Anthony Davidson.

“The winter testing period has been very good for Super Aguri F1 team,” he said.

“Around this time last year we were still struggling to get two cars on the grid. It was our first year and everything was a new experience for the team. This year we have been able to prepare for the season and everybody is raring to go.

“I am very much looking forward to seeing Takuma (Sato) and Anthony (Davidson) working together again and performing their best for the SAF1 team. We will be aiming for points from the opening race and my goal for the end of the season, which I think is a realistic one, is to have our cars in the middle of the grid.”

New driver Davidson was also impressed with the developments Super Aguri have made to the car over winter and is confident they will make an impression this year.

He added: “The team has expanded the aero department over the winter and has made some pretty impressive steps forward. The team is pushing forward a lot and we should see some good results.”