Since its inception in 2014, Formula E has rapidly established itself as a cornerstone of international motorsport, captivating audiences worldwide with its unique blend of sustainability and high-speed racing. Completing nine seasons, the championship's evolution has been nothing short of remarkable, with a vision initially shared by Alejandro Agag and then-FIA president Jean Todt in 2011.
The launch of Formula E was a deliberate effort by the FIA to draw in a younger demographic and emphasize the capabilities of battery-powered vehicles. As racing driver Lucas di Grassi noted, “Back then, anybody who talked about electric cars were either crazy or green activists.” The skepticism surrounding electric vehicles has since dissipated, largely due to the thrilling performances witnessed on Formula E tracks.
A Collaborative Vision
In its debut season, ten teams competed, all utilizing the Spark-Renault SRT 01E car. The development of these cars was a collaborative effort, with McLaren and Williams providing expertise in motor and battery technologies. Despite initial limitations, including a top speed of 140mph and the need for mid-race car swaps due to battery constraints, the excitement was palpable.
With advancements over the years, the second-generation cars boasted speeds up to 173mph and eliminated the cumbersome car swaps. Today, the current 'gen 3' vehicles reach racing speeds of up to 200mph, showcasing the rapid technological advancements within the sport. “Having a fast and a performing car is very important for the public perception towards how they appreciate the sport,” di Grassi emphasized, highlighting the critical role of vehicle performance in maintaining public interest.
Manufacturer Engagement
Formula E has also seen significant engagement from major automotive manufacturers. British powerhouse Jaguar marked its return to competitive racing in season three after a 12-year hiatus. More recently, Mercedes-EQ has demonstrated dominance, securing both driver and team titles in the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons. However, as the 2022-23 campaign approached, notable exits from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes left a void in the competition.
McLaren Racing seized the opportunity presented by Mercedes' departure, acquiring the reigning world champions. Meanwhile, Porsche's commitment to the sport remains steadfast. The German manufacturer, involved in Formula E for the past five years, has pledged to stay through 2030. “If racing is in your DNA, like Porsche, and you're going to be producing only electric cars, then it's perfectly logical to race in a world championship that's electric,” stated Jeff Dodds, encapsulating the brand’s alignment with the championship’s ethos.
Future Innovations
The constant drive for innovation is a hallmark of Formula E. The upcoming 'gen 4' upgrade, slated for season 13 and beyond, promises to push the boundaries even further. As the sport prepares to conclude its 10th season with a double-header in London, anticipation for the next phase of development is palpable.
However, challenges remain, particularly in viewership and fan engagement. Zak Brown highlighted the importance of accessibility, stating, “Definitely more free-to-air. Right now, the fanbase isn’t big enough… Trend fans are not going to stumble across it. That's what it needs to work on.” Echoing this sentiment, Dodds remarked, “You don't want anybody in any of our prime markets asking the question, 'where can I watch it?' That's a pretty bad outcome for a sport. So that's a problem that we have to solve in a long-term way.”
A Consolidated Championship
Despite these hurdles, the growth of Formula E from a fledgling start-up to a consolidated, multi-continent, multi-national, multi-manufacturer series is undeniable. “The championship was a start-up; now it’s a consolidated, multi-continent, multi-national, multi-manufacturer series that still has a lot to improve but has grown massively from the start,” di Grassi reflected.
Formula E now stands as a testament to the possibilities of sustainable motorsport, continuing to pioneer advancements in electric vehicle technology while providing thrilling entertainment. As the sport gears up for its next decade, the legacy of its founders' vision is more evident than ever, securing its place in the annals of racing history.