Toro Rosso boss James Key has seen the relationship with engine partner Honda being fruitful so far in testing, as the STR13 looks very reliable.
This was certainly not the case in the last three years, when the Honda-engine kept breaking down consistently in the McLaren-cars. McLaren grew very frustrated of their Japanese partners, and eventually broke ties with Honda at the end of last season.
Toro Rosso now seem very happy to have Honda as engine partners, as the car has decent pace and is very reliable.
The main theory why this is the case, is that Toro Rosso have given Honda freedom, while McLaren imposed certain technical requirements over the last years. James Key confirms this theory, at least on Toro Rosso's side.
"We wanted to work with Honda. Our team principal knows them well, so we felt we could establish a very friendly relationship and a good understanding."
"We're trying to give Honda the freedom they need to get back to the level of performance they deserve. Basically, we felt a responsability to provide them a car that can allow them to fulfill their potential. I think they appreciated that."
Key realises that the Renault power-unit is probably still faster at this point, but he's optimistic Honda can catch up soon.
"If things continue the way they are, there's no reason to think that they won't be able to fight with Renault by the mid-point of the season."
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