Lotus still finding its feet with 2015 Formula 1 package ­- Permane

After a disappointing 2014, in which Lotus finished eighth in the constructors' championship, the Enstone-­based team showed strong form in pre-season testing.

Both Romain Grosjean and Pastor Maldonado, now powered by the class­-leading Mercedes engine, qualified in the top 10 in Australia, but misfortune saw neither complete the first lap.

Malaysia was difficult, too, with Maldonado suffering an early puncture, before retiring with a brake-­by-­wire problem.

Team-­mate Grosjean lost time when he spun after contact with Force India's Sergio Perez and finished just outside the points in 11th.

Permane remains positive, with the team planning on introducing a series of upgrades in the coming races, but concedes it's been a tricky start.

"It's fair to say that after a difficult year last year we're still finding our feet a little bit," Permane told AUTOSPORT.

"We've got some more stuff coming for China, including a new front wing, and we've got a new nose coming for Barcelona.

"We've got constant aero stuff coming and I'm sure we'll be strong in China."

Maldonado insists the team has the potential to fight for a top ­10 finish in the coming races.

"The potential is clearly there, especially in the race where the car pace is very competitive," he said.

"As soon as we have a clean race, we will be fighting for good points."