F1 for electric cars

5 May 2014  

The electric vehicle equivalent of Formula 1, the cars look similar, with more aerodynamic influence to help the cars achieve greater speeds while aiding downforce. The Spark-Renault SRT-01E is the first car to be homoglated by the FIA and will use electronic powertrain technology provided by McLaren Electronics Systems, with batteries supplied by Williams Advanced Engineering. The car is capable of speeds up to 140mph, limited by the FIA.

The championship is set to take place on street circuits in the heart of major cities, including Beijing, Las Vegas and London. The championship runs from September to June 2015 and will see ten teams, each with two cars, compete for driver and team titles. During races, which are expected to last for one hour, drivers will need to make a mandatory pitstop to change cars.

The series is another statement of the advancement of electric cars. It has been created to allow vehicle manufacturers to showcase their electric technology on a global scale and to bring new fans, who are perhaps conscious of sustainability and environmental impact, to motorsport. The Formula E championship headquarters will open on May 15th at the Donington Park circuit in Derby, where the first cars will be delivered.