LONDON, June 13 - BMW Sauber can expect more Formula One podiums this season after hitting a key target with second place in Montreal last weekend, according to team boss Mario Theissen.

Theissen said before the season started that BMW, third in the constructors' standings, wanted to finish races in the top three on merit and Germany's Nick Heidfeld achieved that on Sunday with their first podium of the year.

"Nick certainly did not finish second by default," he said in an interview issued by the team before Sunday's U.S. Grand Prix at Indianapolis.

"That second place was his on merit, he was simply faster than one of the McLarens and both Ferraris.

"Our form is very much on an upward curve," added Theissen, highlighting the fact BMW had already scored more points (38) in six races than all last season (36).

"We achieved our aim for the season for the first time in Montreal in what was the best overall result so far for the team. But this should not be our only podium finish of the season."

Heidfeld has said he was stunned by the speed of his car in race conditions in Canada and expected to do well at Indianapolis.

His Polish team mate Robert Kubica should be fit to race after his horrific crash in Montreal but must pass a test on Thursday.

"We are prepared in case Robert will not be able to drive," said Theissen. "But, of course, we are all hoping that he will line up in the car at the weekend."

Theissen said the wreckage would be inspected at the factory in Switzerland.

He said BMW had an extra car, in addition to the spare, in Canada which would now become the second race chassis.

"We began work on the car in Canada on Sunday and it will be completed in Indianapolis," said Theissen.