www.planetf1.com
Pastor Maldonado believes new team-mate Valtteri Bottas will benefit from last year's experience as a Friday driver for Williams.
While most test drivers barely spent time in the cars, Bottas took part in 15 Friday practice sessions where he not only got a feel for the car but also the circuits.
As such the 23-year-old played a role in developing both the FW34 and this year's FW35, prompting Maldonado to declare his team-mate ready for his debut season.
"Valtteri has been actively involved in the development and spent long days in the simulator," the Venezuelan driver told MTV3.
"He is not a complete rookie.
"I believe he will enjoy this season and immediately be competitive."
Any reproduction, publication or redistribution of this material without the written agreement of 365 Media Group is strictly forbidden.