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."
