Sato Confident of Reliability from Honda

BAR driver Takuma Sato called for improved reliability from engine suppliers Honda on Thursday as he bids to score his maiden podium in Formula One in Sunday's Canadian Grand Prix.

Sato will get extra power from Honda for Sunday's race at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, but after suffering two engine failures in the last two Grands Prix he knows he needs reliability if he is to add to his eight-point haul this season.

"I think we have developed a lot since the beginning of the season and we were going to have a lot of further steps here for Canada," said Sato, who had been in contention for strong finishes in both Monaco and at the Nurburgring.

"But because we had a few problems in the last few races we are looking more at reliability. So we probably won't have as massive power as we expected, but reliability is going to be a lot higher than the last few races, I believe."

Sato believes his problems are just down to bad luck with teammate Jenson Button having enjoyed 100 percent reliability this season as he has finished in the points in all seven races to take third place in the Championship.

Sato is confident that the Montreal track will suit BAR's package this weekend as they look to take the fight to World Champion Michael Schumacher, who is chasing a hat-trick of wins in Canada, and his Ferrari team.

"Ferrari were very strong the last few years, totally dominated, but I think now the BAR-Honda is getting closer and closer," Sato added. "We did a significant step-up since last year and we are in a learning curve situation. We have more to come. It is possible to catch them up this season, but realistically we are taking it step by step.

"I am very pleased with the team's development since I was there over the last two years. But I think realistically we have to say middle of the season or towards the end (for a win). Winning a Grand Prix is very difficult, very tough.

"Although we are challenging Ferrari a lot closer than we were last year there is still a significant gap between us and we still have to close the gap first. Once we are ready to race side-by-side with them then we can think about winning. But to win a Grand Prix now, I think we need a lot of luck, otherwise it is probably very difficult."