Kovalainen aims for error-free Indy

The Finn crashed in both practice and qualifying in Montreal, as well as suffering an engine failure on Saturday morning, but then came through from 22nd on the grid to fourth in the race.

Buoyed by that performance, Kovalainen wants to ensure a smoother preparation for the Indianapolis race so that he can start from a more representative grid slot.

"It is crucial not to lose track time over the weekend," he said.

"When I went into qualifying (in Montreal), I had no feeling for the performance on the soft tyre, for example. So clearly I need to do the sessions to find a good balance with the car, and build my confidence through the weekend.

"But the other lesson was about the attitude you need. I had a tough weekend, but I stayed positive and kept on working hard. The team worked for me too, supported me all the way, and I did the best for them on Sunday.

"That's what you have to keep on doing if you want to be successful: stay confident, and stay positive."

He is keen to reach Q3 for only the second time in his Formula One career.

"I think I have some good momentum from the race in Canada, and my target will be to build on that this weekend," said Kovalainen.

"I believe we have a top ten car now, so I need to make sure I get the most out of it in qualifying. Once you make it through to the third part of qualifying, then it opens up many more opportunities in terms of strategy for the race.

"I am learning all the time about how to improve my performance, and Canada was another good lesson for me. I was aggressive, and didn't make any mistakes. That will be the first target in Indy and if I do that, then I am confident that the results will start to come."