Sergio Perez on Wednesday revealed he has already started work at the wheel of McLaren’s sophisticated driver simulator.
But the Mexican warned that he will have no impact on the design or specification of his 2013 car, the MP4-28.
"Of course, no," he is quoted as saying, after his first official visit to McLaren’s Woking headquarters for the media on Wednesday.
"However," said the 22-year-old, "I have already worked on the simulator, helping the team to understand the specifics of my driving style.
"But to be honest, I have no influence on the creation of a new car," Perez admitted.
He said his real challenge, whilst learning from his experienced teammate Jenson Button, is to become top dog and fight for the 2013 championship.
"I think at the moment it looks like Jenson has experience, has the team," the Mexican is quoted by the Daily Mail.
"He’s a great champion — the most experienced driver in the paddock now. So I think I have a lot to learn from him. And obviously I want to beat him as well."