Klien has no F1 experience

The 20-year-old Austrian cut his teeth in the Formula BMW series before finishing second in his debut season in the Formula Three Euro Series in 2003.

He had never driven an F1 car when he stepped into the Jaguar for a test drive at Valencia in November.

But Klien's display was enough to persuade the Ford-owned team to pair him up with Australia's Mark Webber in 2004 - at the expense of Britain's Justin Wilson.

PERSONAL DATA Born: 2/2/83 Nationality: Austrian Team: Jaguar 1999: 4th in German Formula BMW junior series 2000: 10th in senior Formula BMW series 2001: 3rd in Formula BMW 2002: Won German Formula Renault title 2003: 2nd in Formula Three Euro Series

His appeal may well have been enhanced by the �10m sponsorship money he is believed to have brought with him from soft drinks company Red Bull.

But Klien, who won four Formula Three Euro Series races last season, impressed managing director David Pitchforth with his speed and attitude.

"His technical feedback was excellent and there is no doubt in our minds about the potential of this exciting new young talent," said Pitchforth.

Klien has signed a one-year deal with an option for two more seasons.

And he will have to adapt fast to compete with Webber, who comfortably outshone both Antonio Pizzonia and Wilson when they were his team-mates last season.