The world of motorsport has been experiencing a gradual evolution, and Formula E has established itself as a dynamic force over the past decade. Since its inception in 2014 by the FIA, the championship has pushed boundaries, aiming to captivate a younger audience and spotlight the potential of battery-powered vehicles.
A Vision Realized
Envisioned in 2011, Formula E was brought to life through the combined efforts of Alejandro Agag and then-FIA president Jean Todt. The debut season launched with ten teams, all equipped with the Spark-Renault SRT 01E car. This initial collaboration drew on the expertise of McLaren and Williams, who contributed significantly to the development of the motors and batteries for these pioneering cars.
The first-generation vehicles, capable of reaching speeds up to 140mph, came with distinct limitations, requiring mid-race car swaps due to battery constraints. However, as technological advancements were made, the second-generation cars, introduced later, achieved a top speed of 173mph and successfully eliminated the need for these swaps.
Technological Advancements and Increased Competition
Today, Formula E boasts the impressive 'gen 3' cars, which can reach racing speeds of up to 200mph, marking a significant leap from the early days. These advancements have not only improved the spectacle of the sport but also shifted public perception towards electric vehicles. As Lucas di Grassi aptly puts it, “Having a fast and a performing car is very important for the public perception towards how they appreciate the sport.”
The championship has also seen the return of some notable names in racing. British manufacturer Jaguar re-entered the fray in the third season, ending a 12-year hiatus and reinstating their competitive spirit in the sport. On the other hand, the 2022-23 campaign marked the exit of automotive giants Audi, BMW, and Mercedes from the series. Despite these departures, the legacy of these brands lingers, especially with Mercedes-EQ securing both driver and team titles in consecutive seasons (2020-21 and 2021-22).
A Shifting Landscape
The exit of major manufacturers has led to shifts within the teams. McLaren Racing, for instance, acquired the world champions following Mercedes' withdrawal, showcasing the ever-adaptive nature of the sport. Porsche remains committed, with plans to stay through 2030, underscoring its belief in the championship’s potential. As Jeff Dodds notes, “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.”
Media and Public Engagement
Ensuring a robust fanbase and greater accessibility has been an ongoing challenge for Formula E. Zak Brown emphasized the importance of visibility, 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.” The necessity for broader and more accessible broadcasting is clear, with Jeff Dodds reinforcing the sentiment: “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.”
Reflecting on a Decade of Growth
As Formula E prepares to conclude its tenth season with an exciting double-header in London, there is much to celebrate. The series has transitioned from a start-up to a consolidated entity spanning multiple continents and involving numerous manufacturers. Reflecting on this journey, Lucas di Grassi observed, “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.”
With preparations underway for the 'gen 4' upgrade in season 13 and beyond, Formula E continues to evolve and innovate, reinforcing its status as a mainstay in the world of motorsports. This ongoing commitment to sustainability and technological advancement ensures that it remains a compelling and relevant fixture on the global racing calendar.