Toyota optimistic of progress

The Cologne-based outfit, still searching for their first Grand Prix win, have scored only five points in the first three races of the season.

And although Howett claims some people were expecting Toyota to be less competitive following winter testing, he admits the team are not yet where they want to be.

He is adamant, however, that the Japanese team can take a step forward during the season and even catch BMW Sauber, third fastest team at the moment.

"What I would say is that the expectations of many people have been grossly exceeded," said Howett. "But in terms of our own ambitions, we expect to be fighting at a higher level.

"So yes it is pleasing we have exceeded some peoples' predictions based on winter testing but we know we have to do more.

"I think we were quicker than BMW last year, very similar to McLaren but not quite so fast in race pace and now clearly the have achieved more or we have slipped back.

"There are two or three challenges facing us now the European season is starting. The first is to maintain our position at the top of the second group of teams and make sure we don't slip back. Then, looking forward, the main ambition now has to be to catch and pass BMW as the first step."

He added: "Our main target is to maintain our position at the head of that secondary group but our ambition is to be in a stronger position this year so we have to work hard and believe the improvements we have made on the car will close the gap to the next team in front of us, BMW."