Carmen Jorda signs with Lotus

Carmen Jorda has joined Lotus as their development driver for the 2015 season.

Jorda, 26, will work closely with the team on an intensive simulator programme in Enstone while also attending grands prix and tests.

Her role will focus on assessing the latest developments of the team's 2015 challenger as Lotus look to rebound in the Championship.

The daughter of former F1 driver Jose Miguel Jorda, the Spaniard said of her appointment: "It feels like a dream come true to join Lotus F1 Team. I’ve been racing since I was ten years old so it was my dream to drive a Formula 1 car since I was very young.

"Joining Lotus F1 Team is a big step towards my goal. I will be working to improve myself as a driver as well as helping the team to develop the car by testing new developments in the simulator; it’s such a fantastic opportunity.

"I know this is just the beginning and the biggest challenge is yet to come but already being part of a team with such a history is a real honour. This is a great achievement, but an even greater opportunity which will lead to bigger and better things."

Jorda has previous racing experience in the European Open Formula 3 and Indy Lights and spent the last three years in the GP3 series.

Lotus CEO Matthew Carter is confident her "insights and contributions" will aid the team.

He said: "We are happy to announce Carmen Jorda a Development Driver for Lotus F1 Team and we are looking forward to working with her over the course of the season and ultimately seeing her behind the wheel of the car.

"Carmen will bring a fresh perspective to the team. We have a strong programme for her attending grands prix as well as extensive time in our sophisticated simulation facility at Enstone.

"She is a unique addition to the team and we are looking forward to helping her progress her goals as well as receiving the benefit of her insights and contributions to the development of the E23 Hybrid."