Daniel Ricciardo and Jean-Eric Vergne have launched the 2013 Toro Rosso STR8

Daniel Ricciardo and Jean-Eric Vergne have launched the 2013 Toro Rosso, the STR8, at Jerez ahead of the first winter test.

Whatever the changes that have been made in Faenza, the drivers have noticed a change in atmosphere at the team. "I spent most of the winter Down Under and when I came back into the factory I could feel a very positive atmosphere with everyone excited about the new car," commented Ricciardo, whilst Vergne added: "I sense a new philosophy within Toro Rosso - I wouldn't say people are working harder, but maybe they are going in a better direction." Unlike Ricciardo, Vergne had no previous F1 race experience when he took to the grid in Melbourne last year and he is hopeful of building on a strong rookie season in 2013. "Going into this season is a completely different experience to this time last year, when I had to deal with a lot of unknowns," the Frenchman said. "I had to learn the majority of tracks, understand so many details about Formula 1 and adapt to working with the team. This year, I will still be learning - you never stop in Formula 1 - but the basics are there and I will be able to focus on more important aspects of the job."
The 2013 car launches
Lotus - January 28th, Enstone.
McLaren - January 31st, Woking.
Force India - February 1st, Silverstone.
Ferrari - February 1st, Maranello.
Sauber - February 2nd, Hinwil.
Red Bull - February 3rd, Milton Keynes.
Mercedes - February 4th, Jerez.
Toro Rosso - February 4th, Jerez.
Caterham - February 5th, Jerez.
Marussia - February 5th, Jerez.
Williams - February 19th, Barcelona.