Nico Rosberg says his goal this season is, together with Lewis Hamilton, to make Mercedes the "best team" in Formula One.
Despite claiming his and the team's first victory at least season's Chinese GP, the 2012 campaign did not go according to plan as the team's results slumped as the year progressed. The team dropped to fifth in the Constructors' Championship.
This year, though, there is a lot of expectations on Mercedes and Rosberg's shoulders as both parties have been called upon to their up game.
"I've been working really hard over the winter on my physical preparation, both in the mountains - climbing to over 2,000 metres with ski boots - and also in the Mediterranean, training on my bike, swimming and running," Rosberg said.
"I fitted that around regular visits to see the guys at the factory in December and January and we have done some really good work, especially in the simulator."
The simulator work gave Rosberg the opportunity to assess the car even before it had turned a single wheel out on track.
"The car seems to be performing well in the virtual world but we have a very busy and intense programme ahead of us during testing to make sure we can deliver that performance on track."
The German hailed the arrival of 2008 World Champion Hamilton, who has signed with Mercedes in a three-year deal.
"The atmosphere in the team is very positive and the people are highly motivated to succeed," said Rosberg.
"And, of course, I have a new team-mate with Lewis. It's his first time in the Silver Arrow and I look forward to working together and pushing each other hard, to make this the best team in Formula One."
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