Her husband might have moved to Mercedes, but Susie Wolff will be continuing her role with Williams as Development Driver.

Wolff joined the team in April 2012 and according to the Grove outfit has played a valuable role in helping to develop the Williams-Renault FW34 and FW35.

Her level of involvement will increase during the 2013 season, with an increased programme in the team's simulator combined with a greater level of in-car testing.

She will be the first to get behind the wheel of the FW35 when she drives the car at Idiada (private test track) next month, and will do the majority of aerodynamic testing this season.

Prior to joining the Williams F1 Team Wolff spent seven seasons driving in DTM and was twice nominated for the prestigious BRDC Young Driver of the Year Award.

'Susie has proved herself to be a valuable addition to our driver roster and her feedback during simulator sessions is second to none," said Mike Coughlan, the team's Technical Director. "As a result we will be stepping up her role this year and I'm looking forward to the progress we can make with Susie's input in conjunction with that of Pastor and Valtteri.''

'I really enjoy my time working with Williams and feel very much at home here," added Wolff. "Last year was a valuable experience and I certainly feel that I've developed a lot as a driver. Increasing my role this year will further this progression and I can't wait to get behind the wheel of the FW35 for the first time next month. I'm showing that women can play a role at the top level of motorsport and would like to thank Sir Frank Williams and the whole of the technical team for the trust they continue to show in me.