Hülkenberg has not driven full-time in Formula 1 since 2019, although he was used twice as a substitute driver for Racing Point in 2020.
The seasoned German spent 2021 as a substitute driver for Aston Martin and was present at many Grands Prix during the year.
Formula 1 is introducing entirely new regulations for 2022, including a switch from 13- to 18-inch tires with returning wheel covers, simplified front wings and body, and a ground effect.
In his new column on LinkedIn, Hülkenberg shared his first thoughts on the new 2022 machines.
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“They aimed [the car] being a little slower, more difficult to drive, more focusing on drivers who can make a difference [than having] Car performance and aerodynamics dominate, ”he wrote. “In my first experience, however, the new cars are damn fast and not necessarily slower than the last generation.
“The driving experience hasn’t changed that much either, at least in the simulator. It will be very interesting to see if these cars are really better at following the car in front. The cornering speeds in the simulator are extremely high, so there is still a risk of “dirty air” and I can hardly imagine that at these speeds it will be easy to follow another car in comfort.
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“In any case, I hope that we will be pleasantly surprised. As soon as the pre-season tests begin, drivers and teams will find out how the cars really behave on the track. “
Despite the numerous rule changes for 2022, Hülkenberg doubts a significant shift in the pecking order.
“I’m also excited to see which teams and drivers start best,” he added. “This is where the wheat is separated from the chaff, and the guys who learn quickly, adapt quickly and adapt well to new conditions will initially be at the forefront.
“Things can change later in the year because it’s going to be a huge learning curve for everyone involved. The development teams are in the process of shifting the order in such a long season. It is still too early to make predictions, although I would be very surprised if the top teams from previous years are not right at the front. “
