Renault announces Robert Wickens, Kevin Korjus and Jan Charouz for Abu Dhabi test

The trio will get one day each in the R31, as the Enstone-based team keeps a close eye on rising talent.

Team principal Eric Boullier said: "The young driver test in Abu Dhabi in is a great opportunity for us to cast our eyes over potential future stars of the sport.

"With a plethora of young hopefuls out there, we hope to spot very strong contenders for future F1 seats. As the season draws to a close, this three day test will pit the wits of the three drivers against this challenging circuit. We look forward to seeing how they get on."

Wickens, who is also taking part in Friday practice for Virgin Racing at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, is the Formula Renault 3.5 champion.

"I'm really excited - I think it's every kid's dream to drive a Formula 1 car," he said. "I can't wait to drive the Lotus Renault on Tuesday; I have been waiting a long time.

"Obviously I'm confident having won the Formula Renault 3.5 Championship; that was a big achievement for me and it just proves to myself I'm capable of doing something like this. I feel like I'm ready for Formula 1 and I think driving the car in Abu Dhabi will be kind of a true test.

"All year, my goal in World Series was to win the championship and to get this drive, so hopefully I can make the most of the opportunity and put in some competitive lap times."

Korjus gets his first F1 experience after becoming the youngest driver to win a race in Formula Renault 3.5, while Charouz is one of Renault's third drivers.