Pirelli to use Toyota car for F1 tire testing

(GMM) Pirelli may be looking to acquire a Toyota formula one car with which to do some specific tire testing later this year.

With the Italian brand likely to succeed Bridgestone as F1's official supplier in 2011-2013, it emerged recently that some development track testing is probable in the coming months.

Mercedes reserve driver Nick Heidfeld has already volunteered to participate.

"This is what we have to discuss with the tire manufacturer as soon as we know who it will be," confirmed Ferrari team boss Stefano Domenicali.

Milan based Pirelli has not yet received the official green light, but it is believed that contracts with F1's commercial rights holder have been signed.

And Italy's Autosprint claims that the 12 current teams signed a letter of intent in Montreal last weekend about being shod with Pirelli rubber in 2011.

The next step is the agreement of the FIA, with the World Motor Sport Council set to meet next Wednesday.

The magazine said talks between Pirelli and Toyota could result in a formula one car belonging to the Cologne based former competitor being used for tire testing late this summer.

The solution would ensure that tire data can be produced by Pirelli without any single team obtaining an advantage.