http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97887 "Pirelli said the Renault R30 will be adapted to simulate the latest technical and aerodynamic regulations." "Our new test car will be running to current fuel regulations, with no refueling, so we will be able to simulate a full race distance and the change in balance with the car and tyres." The only thing they lack now is KERS then Who do you think will get the test driver seat? which is arguably either the best test driver seat in Formula 1 or a very close 2nd to Force India. Adrian Sutil would be a good bet for both parties, very good and fast experienced driver and it will keep sutil race fit and his skills as sharp as a champagne flute. DJ squire would probably be a good bet as well for the same reasons only less experienced and maybe not as fast just yet, though speed probably wouldn't matter so much for this role. Or maybe once he is fully recovered they could get Kubica in the car and start getting hundreds of laps under his belt, help him recover his previous form outside of the spotlight.
I was going to say they couldn't have Sutil back so soon after being convicted of genocide or whatever it was but then I remembered this is F1. EDIT: And it doesn't look like Kubica's name's anywhere near the frame.
For me I see it being either Sutil or Trulli (if they're interested). Both good drivers well up for the job, but how much will their styles affect the compound decisions I wonder.
Trulli would seem the best bet. lots of experience and probably happy just to drive. I imagine the others would want a full time ride somewhere else
Alguersuari will be back in F1 in some capacity next year, of that I have no doubt. This will only boost his pedigree. Not so sure about di Grassi.
If we assume that the tyres will be somewhat mated to the styles of the test drivers how do Alge and Di Grassi compare? I'm not sure how wild an assumption it is to say that the tyre make up will be designed to suit their test drivers and new car, but a change in car and drivers could effect the F1 field in a skewed manner next year.
Good question. Being test drivers I would guess they'll be required to drive in different ways, including neutrally. Whether they each represent significantly differing styles (e.g. like Button and Hamilton) I don't know but Pirelli will need to simulate various car and driver effects to assess how the tyres respond. The test drivers and car will only be factors, too - data and reports from the teams will be just as important in developing the tyres to meet the objectives set by the FIA.
