ALICE Powell will get behind the wheel of a Formula E car for the first time next month.

The Chipping Norton driver has been picked as one of Envision Virgin Racing's rookies for the series' only in-season test in Marrakesh on March 1.

It follows the 27-year-old's third place in last year's W Series and Powell was delighted to be selected.

She told the team's official website: "I’d like to thank the team for the opportunity to test their Formula E car – it’s an amazing experience and I can’t wait to jump into the car now, especially having spent time on the team’s simulator."

Sylvain Filippi, Envision Virgin Racing’s managing director, added: “It’s great to have Alice on-board for the Marrakesh test, as someone who has already driven in an electric championship, she’ll bring a great understanding of the technical elements of the car."

Powell became the first woman to win a Formula Renault championship when she was 17, while in 2012 was the first female driver to score points in the GP3 Series.

She is also an ambassador for Dare To Be Different, which inspires women to get into racing.