F1: 2015 Auto GP champion will get F1 test

A prize Formula 1 test will be offered to the Auto GP drivers' champion in 2015, the series has announced. Auto GP also plans to introduce performance upgrades and reduced budgets for its sixth season.

The Enzo Coloni-promoted championship hopes modifications will bring around a 1.5-second improvement over the current spec machine.

A reduced race calendar from eight to seven rounds and other cost-saving measures are intended to bring the average full-season budget down to $500,000. Auto GP will continue to act as a support series to the World Touring Car Championship, a relationship that can be traced to 2010.

"We worked really hard to make Auto GP the best possible choice by improving the car's performance, consolidating the media exposure thanks to the partnership with Eurosport and optimizing once again the budget needed," said Enzo Coloni. "All of these features will be available to the young drivers aiming to make the step to Formula 1.

"In order to support that program, we decided to make our dynamic simulator, which was validated by the best drivers and engineers over the last four years, available for the competitors. Specifically developed for the Auto GP series and to prepare drivers for the step to Formula 1, the simulator will be open to teams and drivers to provide them with a better preparation for the upcoming season."

Auto GP has released a provisional list of venues for 2015, but with no dates as the WTCC has yet to reveal its calendar for the forthcoming season.

The Nurburgring meeting is understood to support the Blancpain round in September.

Auto GP venues for 2015

Marrakesh
Budapest
Silverstone
Le Castellet
TBA
Brno
Nurburgring

Originally on Autosport.com