Susie Wolff will take part in two practice sessions at Formula 1 grands prix this year as part of an expanded role for the Grove-based Williams development driver.

The 31-year-old Scot joined the team in April 2012 and has helped to develop the FW34, FW35 and new Mercedes FW36.

The plan is for Wolff to drive at Silverstone and Hockenheim, two tracks she knows well, in the first practice sessions ahead of the British and German events in July.

Not since Giovanna Amati, who failed to qualify in the 1992 Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos for Brabham, has a woman driven an F1 car over the course of a race weekend.

Prior to joining the Oxfordshire outfit, she spent seven seasons in Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters, and was twice nominated for British Racing Drivers’ Club young driver of the year.

Wolff said: “I’m grateful for the support and belief Williams continue to show in me and 2014 promises to be a very important milestone in my career.

“Competing in two FP1 sessions, alongside a full test day, will be a big step and I am looking forward to the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the FW36 on a Grand Prix weekend. It’s a challenge that I will relish.”

Williams’ chief technical officer, Pat Symonds, said: “Susie has demonstrated a natural talent for developing a car and providing strong feedback.”