In a recent press gathering to promote Force India’s presence at this weekend’s season-opening Grand Prix in Bahrain, team principal boss Vijay Mallya believes his upstart squad can score points consistently this season.

"We finished 2009 on a real high note - our first-ever points, a podium and one place up in the Constructors' Championship," said Mallya.

"That is enough in itself to set the bar much higher this season, but we're really determined to take it to the next level.

"Regular points and the odd podium have got to be the aim and we know it is possible. I have a lot of faith in the drivers and the technical staff, I think we've got into a very good rhythm together now."

Mallya believes the team has a strong new car to work with and that, in itself, will provide the team with plenty of motivation this season.

"I have been very encouraged by the entire performance, both at the track and at the factory," he added. "The testing times gave very positive headlines, but it is very difficult to know where we are until we get to Bahrain.

"Certainly however the initial reports from the drivers are encouraging and when that happens it's worth another three to four tenths - if they feel happy and confident in the car then that they can really attack."

Wheelman Tonio Liuzzi believes Force India will score its first point this weekend.

"For the first race we want to show that our winter work has paid off. Points are our target for the time being and getting into the top ten, as high as possible.

"Being realistic, a few points should be feasible and hopefully everything goes as well as in testing with good reliability for the first race."