F1: Toyota Eyes 2009 Jump

Formula 1

F1: Toyota Eyes 2009 Jump

Team believes it has restored the level of competitiveness of 2005.

RACER & autosport.com | http://www.racer.com/speedtv | Posted August 06, 2008 Budapest, Hungary

Howett: optimistic but not yet satisfied... (LAT Photo)

Toyota team president John Howett believes that his team has an ideal opportunity to make the jump upfield next year, when the a series of new technical regulations, including the KERS system, make their Formula 1 debut.

The Japanese team has enjoyed a surge in form lately, highlighted by Timo Glock’s runner-up finish in Hungary last weekend. Toyota is showing its best form since 2005, when Jarno Trulli and Ralf Schumacher combined for 88 points by season’s end.

"We had a strong beginning to 2005 because we sacrificed 2004 with the regulation change, although towards the end we lifted,” Howett told autosport.com. "Last year, we had actually had a better season than the results showed and maybe we were given credit for, but I think now we have got a good team of people working together and it is coming.

"Next year is a huge opportunity and a huge risk. If you get it right you will be a star and if you get it wrong you will be struggling all season. So, we are mindful of that. Like everybody, we have been working a long time on the 2009 car. We are still forcing this car hard, but until we actually race in Australia next year I don't think anyone will know how they have done.

"We are trying to be strong everywhere. We are trying to put more on the car, but are mindful that we have a massive change in terms of the profile of the aerodynamics for next year. So, everyone is reaching that dilemma I think. Between ourselves, Renault and Red Bull it is partly track dependent - and the question will be who can put the most on in the last few weeks before we have to start on next year's car without stop."

With 35 points, Toyota currently sits fourth in the 2008 constructor’s standings, behind Ferrari, McLaren and BMW.