Lewis has his engine purring for Pussycat Doll Nicole

He's lightening fast on the track, and it seems Lewis Hamilton is lightning fast with the ladies too.

Last night, the Formula 1 star met former Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger and in a matter of hours he'd convinced her to go for an "intimate" date.

The pair met backstage at the MTV Europe Music Awards in Munich, where Lewis, 22, was presenting an award and Nicole was performing with will.i.am.

Heart to heart: Lewis Hamilton gets close to Pussycat Doll Nicole Sherzinger

The racer then headed back to his hotel with his pals - who included Shaggy and magician Dynamo - for some Dutch courage, before heading out to see 29-year-old Nicole perform at a private party thrown by record label Universal.

An onlooker said: "Lewis was quite nervous about meeting her, and was fidgeting in the hotel bar before he went out to see her. He sat near the side of the stage and couldn't keep his eyes off her as she performed with will.i.am at the exclusive party.

Living doll: Lewis cosied up to the singer after she performed at the awards last night

"Nicole then arranged to have him brought backstage, where they met at the VIP bar. Lewis had his arm around her as she whispered in his ear - he was telling her how much he loved her performance and how fantastic she looked.

"She clearly loved the attention, and told him how pleased she was that he came to see her."

Animal attraction: Pussycat Nicole had Lewis purring

Lewis has been single after splitting up with his long-term girlfriend Jodia Ma in March.

With his wealth and good looks, he has got to be one of the world's most eligible bachelors - and Nicole certainly seemed to be aware of that.

The source added: "Lewis told one of his entourage that it was too busy backstage and that he would like to go somewhere quieter. He then leaned over to Nicole and told her he would like to take her somewhere more intimate. Finally, they left the party together, climbing into his black people carrier."

Here's hoping that Lewis takes his fast moves onto the track next season, because if he does he'll definitely be walking the championship.

Pretty in pink: Nicole launched her solo career at the prestigious music event with a duet with Black Eyed Peas singer Will.I.Am