de Silvestro relishing Porsche development role

Simona de Silvestro is relishing her opportunity to be back in Formula E as a test and development driver for the newly formed Porsche team ahead of season six.

Currently embarking on her Supercar season in Australia, she was chosen as one of two test and reserve drivers to help develop the new 99X Electric which will race driven by Andre Lotterer and Neel Jani for their debut Formula E season.

“So I’m the testing and development driver for the team, and that means giving support to Neel and Andre at the track. It’s quite exciting to be joining this prestigious brand and especially starting this journey with them in Formula E.” explained de Silvestro.

The Swiss driver is hoping to get some track time during an in-season test in the 99X Electric, alongside fellow test driver Thomas Preining, hoping to use her wealth of knowledge and previous Formula E experience to push the team forward.

“I think with the test car next there will be some opportunities for me to drive the car, but for the moment I still need to finish my Supercar season and then we’ll see how the calendars and everything aligns for next year.”

de Silvestro also commented on her excitement at the potential for future drives within the Porsche family not just in Formula E, but other series too.

“Yeah I think it’s really big. Definitely the Formula E thing is an amazing opportunity and I’ve always tried to keep a foot in it and being with a brand like Porsche is quite special. I think there will definitely be some racing opportunities that will get announced a little bit later in the year.”