Force India boss praises Roberts' input

"People feel that we are a lot more professional, we have better systems and procedures and allocation of job responsibility," Mallya told reporters at Jerez.

"We have learned a lot through McLaren, particularly because of Simon Roberts who has been seconded to us as chief operating officer of Force India.

"He has brought a lot of the processes and management techniques, and it is a completely changed team. It goes far beyond a new look and a new livery - we really are very hopeful this year that we are going to be in the points."

Roberts has joined Force India from McLaren after the two team signed a technical partnership at the end of last year.

Thanks to the deal, Force India will use Mercedes engines as well as the gearboxes, hydraulics and KERS from the McLaren team.

The Silverstone-based squad unveiled their new challenger yesterday after it was shaken down by Adrian Sutil earlier on at the British track.

Giancarlo Fisichella has been the man in charge of testing duties so far as Jerez, and Mallya admits his drivers' excitement about the car have left him very encouraged for the season.

"I think the guys at the factory did a brilliant job on the car and getting it ready for this test," he added.

"I have to only say one thing to you: even though we do not have too much mileage yet on this car, I asked Adrian Sutil the first question after the shakedown at Silverstone, 'How does it feel?' He said, 'It is a completely different car from last year and it feels really good.'

"I called Giancarlo from Bombay last night after he had some laps yesterday, and we had some fuel pressure problems which are hopefully sorted out now, and he said the car is extremely promising and there was a certain excitement.

"So when my drivers are excited, and they feel that the car has promise and potential, then that is encouraging for me."