Simpson in ChampCar test

The 22-year-old South African will drive for Conquest Racing at the MSR Raceway in Texas as the team continue their trend of trying out young drivers this winter.

Simpson said: "I'm excited about driving a Champ Car. I think it's such a great Series and with the new car coming in next year, it should make it even more interesting.

"My main goal right now is to drive in the Champ Car Series in '07 and I am very thankful to the Conquest Team for giving me my first chance aboard their Lola at the MSR track."

After two years in British Formula Renault, Simpson switched to the ChampCar Atlantic Series with Gelles this season, but quit his drive after three rounds to concentrate on the A1 GP Series in which he races for Team South Africa.

Simpson's chances of claiming a race seat in the series have been boosted by the news that a South African TV station is negotiating a broadcasting deal for 2007.