2020 Mercedes "from a different planet" - De Vries

Nyck de Vries has hailed this year's title-winning Mercedes as "from a different planet" following his test outing in Abu Dhabi.

The Mercedes Formula E driver, who also contributes to the team's Formula 1 programme via simulator work, was finally given his debut F1 opportunity on Tuesday.

The 25-year-old Dutchman took it with both hands as he completed 125 trouble-free laps of Abu Dhabi's Yas Marina Circuit, finishing second quickest, 0.262secs behind Fernando Alonso for Renault.

Hailing his maiden F1 appearance as "very special", De Vries was appreciably bowled over by the W11 as he said: "What an incredible car, it's from a different planet really.

"You can brake so late and carry so much speed through the corners. It was a real pleasure to drive. I'm really pleased with the progression I made throughout the day and the work we completed.

Wow it happened! That’s me in “a” Formula 1 car. Knew they were fast but there is simply nothing to compare it to. Very pleased with our day and performance. @MercedesAMGF1 thank you 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/DzFVKNSnyx

— Nyck de Vries (@nyckdevries) December 15, 2020

"I was quite surprised with how quickly I felt comfortable in the car and the team was very supportive, doing everything they could to make me feel as comfortable as possible.

"A massive thanks to Mercedes for this very unique and special opportunity because it was a great day in the car."

De Vries finished a quarter of a second quicker than Mercedes reserve driver Stoffel Vandoorne, although the Belgian had to curtail his running and leave early due to a PR commitment with the Formula E team.

The test proved to be the final running of the W11 until 2022 at the earliest when it can be re-used under FIA regulations as a two-year-old car for additional testing purposes.

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