Pirelli invites F1 teams to send observers to first running of test car in Jerez

F1's tyre supplier spent the winter trying to find a suitable test car, after its previous 2009 Toyota model was too outdated to continue providing useful development data.

After the teams failed to deliver a satisfactory solution, Pirelli eventually agreed a deal to run a 2010 Renault car, which will be operated by independent staff rather than employees of the currently-named Lotus outfit.

The decision to get hold of a more modern car has prompted talk that the Lotus team could benefit from valuable tyre data from the tests. But Pirelli has been quick to deny this.

"We have invited all the teams to send an observer and see what we are up to," Hembery told AUTOSPORT about the May Jerez test. "Just so they that we are doing things in a fair way for everybody."

Hembery said Pirelli chose Renault because it wanted a solid midfield contender - and the identity of the team was partly helped by the French car manufacturer no longer having an official entry in F1.

"We wanted something in the mid range, and it came fifth in the championship that year," he said. "I didn't want to disturb the top teams.

"You may think that we wanted to get the car that won the championship, but if you do that, then it could get wrapped up in a whole lot of politics and drama.

"We felt on that point it had to be avoided. So we have got a solid performer. There are cost elements too, and Renault is not in the sport any more."

Pirelli is still seeking an official test driver for its 2012 plans, with speculation that Jaime Alguersuari could take the role being fuelled after the Spaniard was spotted in deep conversation with Hembery in Australia last weekend.

Hembery said no decision had been taken yet, and it was not totally ruled out that it could keep Lucas di Grassi on board.

"There are lots of people on the list, it is amazing," he said. "There are also some bizarre names there - people who retired 20 years ago! But we have never had a problem with the work done already, so it is not like we are making a change for change's sake. Maybe we will not make a change."