Category: Motorsports

So what is this Formula E category the FIA is introducing next year? In simple terms it will commence as a one-make category consisting of 10 teams, with two drivers each, racing on 10 city street circuits around the globe.

The point of difference is the car being used, the Spark-Renault SRT 01E, runs solely on electric power. Formula E lays claim to being the first global zero emissions series ratified and supported by the FIA.

Having recently had its first proper test run the Spark-Renault SRT 01E has been supported by many leading names from the motorsport world. Design and assembly has been carried out by Spark Racing Technology and Renault is responsible for the electric drivetrain. Behind the scenes McLaren Electronic Systems has played a role in development and assembly of the powertrain, along with the electronic controls. Williams Advanced Engineering did the battery design while Dallara is responsible for the chassis.

As an open formula, teams will be able to design and manufacture their own cars. Although the control car will be used for the category’s debut season.

Former F1 driver Lucas di Grassi is the Formula E test driver and after last month’s he said: “I can assure all the drivers will have a lot of fun with this car—it has quite a lot of grip and the electric motor produces huge torque.”

Nine of the 10 teams have been announced, with Virgin signing on earlier today. Other teams include Andretti Autosport, Audi Sport ABT, Drayson Racing and Super Aguri. At this stage driver no announcements have been made.

Motorsport’s first all-electric open wheel formula will have a few quirks. Namely, peak power is capped to 200kW, although during races the cars will be limited to 133kW, with the full power in short bursts available in a push to pass mode. Highlighting the limitations of the current technology drivers will have to pit twice during each race, which lasts for one hour, in order to change cars. Yes, change cars!

During practice and qualifying the cars, which weigh 800kg including the driver, will have the full 200kW available to them. Qualifying will consist of just two timed laps per driver.

We expect the category will have to endure a few issues during its infancy. We’re also keen to see how the general public accept Formula E, anticipating the step from curious novelty to bona fide racing category will be a difficult one.

More info on Formula E can be read after the break, with a reminder the series will debut in Beijing next September.

UPDATE 8 January 2014: A link has been added below for the tenth and final team, the Venturi Formula E Team. A Monaco-based outfit boasting none other than Leonardo Di Caprio as one of its founders.

In September we’ll be transported to a new era of motorsport when the Formula E championship begins in Beijing. In its inaugural year, which will run across 2014 and 2015, Formula E will host 10 races across four continents.

All races will be held on a Saturday, rather than the traditional Sunday as we’re familiar with in F1 and so on.

It’s also interesting to note the locations, which includes three races in South America and on both the east and west coast of the United States. The timing of the Monaco race in 2015 is also noteworthy, likely to be just a few weeks prior to the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Similarly, a week after Sao Paulo hosts its Formula 1 Grand Prix in early November, Rio de Janeiro will host its first Formula E race.

We’ll bring you up to speed on the cars and teams soon, but for now you can find out more at the official Formula E website.