In 12 months the FIA will launch its Formula E racing series. For the first season, at least, this Spark-Renault SRT 01E racecar will be the only car you’ll see in action.
An assortment of 10 teams, with two drivers each, will compete in races held across 10 cities spanning four continents. The inaugural season is scheduled to run from September 2014 through to June 2015.
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.
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.
While wishing the FIA all the best with this Formula E, we’re expecting it to have quite a few teething problems while the series matures.