Vergne working with Red Bull on 2011 car

Jean Eric Vergne

(GMM) Jean Eric Vergne has confirmed he is becoming "more and more" involved in Red Bull's formula one program.

The 20-year-old is the energy drink outfit's replacement for ousted junior and F1 reserve driver Brendon Hartley.

There is no testing during the F1 season, but the Frenchman – who drives in British F3 and now in Hartley's Formula Renault 3.5 seat – is hoping to do the young driver session in Abu Dhabi in November.

And when asked if he is now working with Milton Keynes based Red Bull Racing, he answered: "More and more — in the simulator.

"The objective is preparing for grands prix: we try different setups and there is also work on the (2011 car) RB7," said Vergne.

That would seem to indicate that he will definitely have a role with the F1 team next season.

"No project has been set for next year and it's too early to think about it. I don't know what I'll be doing in 2011," he insisted.