Former champion Russell Ingall is a surprise guest driver at Nissan Motorsport’s second V8 Supercars test of the season today at Winton.

According to the team, Ingall is cutting laps to provide feedback and help the squad with the ongoing development of its Altima package.

The 52-year-old has recent experience in front-running equipment, having made substitute outings with the Holden Racing Team and Prodrive in last year’s Pirtek Enduro Cup.

While officially an evaluation of the car, sources suggest that the team is also using the day to assess Ingall for a possible endurance berth.

Nissan has so far announced just one of its four co-drivers, with Dean Fiore confirmed to return alongside Michael Caruso.

Team stalwart David Russell and Carrera Cup star Matt Campbell are also testing today and expected to race with the squad, leaving a single seat spare.

While Nismo Global Athlete Alex Buncombe has competed with Nissan in each of the last two Enduro Cups, a clash between Sandown and the Blancpain Endurance Series has ruled the Brit out of this year’s campaign.

Ingall competed in last year’s enduros while maintaining his television commitments, providing insight pieces for Fox Sports between track sessions.