Karthikeyan to test Kolles' Audi LMP1

Team boss Colin Kolles was Karthikeyan's team principal during the Indian's F1 stint with Jordan in 2005. The test will be his first taste of an LMP1 car.

"I am very excited about this test that Dr Kolles has offered me," said Karthikeyan. "I have been following the Le Mans races for many years now, and have been waiting for the right opportunity to test one of the front-running cars.

"The Audi R10 TDI is a legendary racer, and I feel honoured, privileged and thankful for this opportunity."

The test will take place at the Lausitz track next week, and Karthikeyan believes his F1 experience will help him rapidly adapt to the Audi sportscar.

"I have been talking to some people who have driven the Audi R10 TDI, and they all tell me that it is blindingly quick and has plenty of downforce, very similar to a Formula One car," said Karthikeyan.

"These attributes in a race car resonate very well in my brain, and I can't wait to get to Germany and start what could be a very exciting adventure."

Karthikeyan has spent the last few seasons in A1GP, and also tested for Williams for two years after leaving Jordan.

Kolles are the first private team to run one of Audi's all-conquering diesel prototypes, and will maintain Audi's presence in the LMS after the factory team's decision to focus on Le Mans with the new R15.