Lotus test driver Nabil Jeffri, 16, has predicted he will become a Formula 1 world champion in the future.

The Malaysian became the youngest person to drive an F1 car during aero testing for the Norfolk-based team at Duxford airfield on Wednesday.

Currently a Formula BMW Pacific series competitor, Jeffri is aiming high.

"Definitely one day I'll be here driving Formula One cars and will be a Formula One world champion," he told BBC Radio Norfolk.

The youngster was offered the opportunity by fellow countryman and Lotus owner Tony Fernandes to get behind the wheel of the team's T127 and conduct straight line aerodynamic tests.

I had a chat with Kovalainen, he's a very nice guy, he gave me some tips. He said 'remain calm and you'll be there one day' Lotus test driver Nabil Jeffri

"Last year was my fifth year in go-karting, then Tony came to me and said he would support me driving a Formula BMW car," he said.

"So this year, here I am, driving a Formula BMW car and then he called me and said 'are you ready to drive a Formula 1 car? We have a seat for you'.

"I was too surprised to say a thing. Who would just call you and ask if you're ready to drive an F1 car?"

Jeffri has plenty of experience around him to help him in his progression.

As well as regular tester Fairuz Fauzy he has been getting advice from one of Lotus's two race drivers this year, and former McLaren man, Heikki Kovalainen.

"I had a chat with Kovalainen, he's a very nice guy, he gave me some tips," Jeffri added.

"He said 'remain calm and you'll be there one day'."

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