McLaren expect their MP4-25 to have better pace at the Australian Grand Prix than it did during the season-opener in Bahrain.
The Bahrain GP was a relatively successful one for McLaren, with Lewis Hamilton managing to finish on the podium, thanks in part to problems suffered by Sebastian Vettel's Red Bull. Jenson Button, meanwhile, came home seventh.
However, the team is hoping to have quicker machines in Melbourne's Albert Park.
"Coming just a fortnight after the opening race in Bahrain, there's been only minimal time to add developments to the MP4-25," team principal Martin Whitmarsh said. "But we've got a number of smaller components that we expect to add to the car ahead of the race.
"We've had the chance to reflect upon it, and I believe that our start to the season has been mostly encouraging. Our race pace in Bahrain looked respectable - we had the fastest car for much of the second half of the race - and I think we now have a clearer idea of how to set the car up over a grand prix weekend."
Ferrari and Red Bull will once again be the favourites for success Down Under.
"Of course, we're under no illusions that the opposition will be tough - and we expect a fantastic battle in Melbourne this weekend," continued Whitmarsh.
"The Australian Grand Prix organisers put on a fantastic event and it's an event I always look forward to with huge enthusiasm. I hope that we can put on a great show for everyone."