Miki Koyama has been handed the opportunity to test the Lola Yamaha ABT FIA Formula E challenger in next month’s all-female test in Valencia.
Miki will be the only driver utilised by the team in the test, which takes place on November 7th, the final day of the pre-season testing programme at the Ricardo Tormo Circuit.
The 27-year-old Japanese driver is currently racing in the Japanese Super GT Championship and is a development driver for Toyota Gazoo Racing.
She was also a points-scorer in both the 2019 and 2021 seasons of W Series, and in 2022 became the first female driver to win a mixed-gender, single-seater FIA Championship, taking the title in the Formula Regional Japanese Championship.
Till Bechtolscheimer, Lola’s CEO, said:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Miki to the team. As our recent signing of Zane Maloney, himself a Formula E rookie, demonstrates, our commitment to accelerate the next generation of motorsport extends beyond the technology to the drivers themselves. Providing greater opportunities for women throughout the paddock is a key part of that vision.
“Going into any season, but as a new team in particular, every second of pre-season testing is invaluable. We’re highly confident not only in Miki’s abilities to maximise this opportunity for herself, but to use her experience to help us with our key development goals during this vital time for the team.”
Miki said: “The upcoming test in Valencia is a great chance to experience the next generation of Formula E cars, and I’m looking forward to making the most of my time in the car, and to also provide constructive feedback to the team as we prepare for the upcoming season.
“It’s exciting to be part of such a progressive initiative as the all-female test, it’s a brilliant platform to learn, showcase our abilities, and support the team’s development.”
The famed British manufacturer joined forced with the Japanese marque to produce a new powertrain for the German team for Season 11. It is Lola’s first venture back into top-level motorsport since its relaunch.
