Mercedes AMG Petronas
Reigning World Champion Lewis Hamilton expressed optimism after he led the way during both Friday practice sessions at the British Grand Prix.
Hamilton edged out Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg during the first session before finishing clear of Red Bull's Daniel Ricciardo in the afternoon session, with Rosberg unable to run due to a water leak.
"[There were] lots of positive steps forward with the balance of the car," he said.
"It's incredibly gusty out there, which is one of the awesome challenges of this circuit. Coming through Maggots and Becketts then down through Stowe, I was actually yelling in my helmet, it's that exciting!
"What a great combination of corners - particularly when the wind is blowing in the right direction. Today we had a bit of a head wind and it just felt epic through there - one of the most fun rollercoaster rides you can imagine.
"We've still got work to do as our ultimate pace could be better. But the long run was good, so if we can keep the car in that window we'll be in a strong position."
Despite missing the second session Rosberg remains confident of challenging Hamilton.
"It looks like we are quickest out there and that it will be a good battle between me and Lewis," he said.
"It's a shame that I wasn´t able to have a run in the afternoon - but I'm sure we can fix the problems by tomorrow morning."
