Lotus ready to switch focus to 2011

Lotus will switch its attention to 2011 after the British Grand Prix, with the final update package for the T127 set to be introduced at Silverstone.

The team had hinted earlier in the year that it would reach a point where it was satisfied it had done enough to stay ahead of its fellow new teams and would then pour its resources in to the design of next season's car - in the hope that it can be a regular points contender in '11.

Technical director Mike Gascoyne said the Silverstone upgrade package was a major step that he hoped would bring Lotus onto the tail of the established midfield teams.

"We're looking to take another step forward this weekend, with an update package that will give us another chance to take the fight to the teams ahead," said Gascoyne.

"We have a number of lightweight parts across the car that, among other benefits, will help us use the ballast more effectively, giving our drivers a better chance to optimise balance and set-up.

"We also have the last major aero modifications of the season, including a new floor and various bodywork updates, and then the design team's attention turns to next year's car."

Team boss Tony Fernandes expects Lotus to be a fan favourite at Silverstone, so feels it is important that upgrades put it in a position to show some giant-killing form on home ground.

"A lot of the guys at the factory will be in the stands, alongside our growing army of fans, and it's great that we're giving them the chance to see our green and yellow cars taking the fight to the established midfield teams at the home of motor racing," he said.

Kovalainen encouraged by Lotus pace

Heikki Kovalainen was encouraged by the competitiveness of his Lotus team despite failing to finish at the Malaysian Grand Prix.

"It was still a very positive race for us, despite the issues," said the Finn, who had finished the first two races of the season.

"My start wasn't fantastic and it meant I dropped immediately to the back. After that I got into a good rhythm, but started to see some issues on the dash.

"I tried to make a move on di Grassi, but clipped his front wing when I was going past and damaged my left rear tyre, so had to come in to pit.

"Even with the problems we had the car was competitive and I was very comfortable. Compared to the other new teams our times are very competitive indeed, so I'm not going to let this race trouble me - we learned a lot and now we'll move on and look ahead to China," he added.

Team-mate Jarno Trulli went on to finish in 15th position after making contact early on with Virgin's Timo Glock.

"We made a good start, but then on the second lap I was hit by Glock, which made me spin, and from then on my race was compromised," said the Italian.

"Despite that I got the car home to the end and that shows our focus on reliability has been worth the effort."