Fernando Alonso is brimming with confidence ahead of the new Formula 1 season, believing Ferrari have the skills to be ready to challenge for the world championship.
Alonso is entering his third season with Ferrari and after narrowly missing out on the drivers' title in 2010, the Spaniard had to settle for third in the standings after a difficult 2011.
He won just one race in 2011 but he is confident Ferrari have managed to deliver a car capable of leading him to his third world championship.
"It looks very different from what we have seen in the last two years," Alonso said at the launch of the F2012, which features an aggressive step on its nose.
"My third season at Ferrari and I am going to start with the same strength and determination. I want to do great.
"Of course it will be quite competitive for the whole season, but we want to see red cars on the podium. We start next week in Jerez and we keep working together. I am sure we will do well this year."
Pre-season testing gets underway at Jerez next week with two more sessions to follow before the season opens in Melbourne in March and Alonso believes hard work will ensure Ferrari are ready to challenge from the very first race.
"I believe in the skills we have here in Ferrari. We have two months to get ready before the first competition. We have to fight for the title and try and get as many points as possible. We really want to be right at the top of the ranking," he added.
"We have to be as consistent and resolute as possible and I am sure, really, really sure we will be able to get great targets and great responsibility for driving for Ferrari."