Formula E, the world’s premier electric racing series, is not only thrilling spectators with high-speed action but also driving innovation that could reshape the future of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road.
As Season 10 of Formula E kicked off at Mexico City’s Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, the spotlight fell on the cutting-edge technology powering the race cars. With speeds exceeding 300km/h (186mph), Formula E cars are pushing the boundaries of electric performance, showcasing the potential of EVs to compete with their combustion engine counterparts.
Since its inception in 2011, Formula E has evolved into a global phenomenon, boasting 11 teams and 22 drivers competing in single-seater race cars reminiscent of Formula One vehicles. The championship’s growing popularity is reflected in its total sponsorship for the 2023-2024 season, estimated at a staggering $102.5 million (£81.36 million), with a global viewership of 344 million.
At the heart of Formula E’s success lies its battery technology, which delivers up to 350kW of power and propels drivers to speeds of up to 320km/h (199mph). This advanced battery technology, developed by elite engineering firms like WAE, McLaren, and Podium Advanced Technologies, serves as a crucial testing ground for new battery innovations that could revolutionise the entire EV industry.
One of the key challenges in Formula E battery design is achieving sustained high performance while maintaining lightness and efficiency. Batteries must deliver rapid acceleration and maintain top speeds throughout the race, all while adhering to strict weight limits and cooling requirements. These engineering challenges, coupled with the need for ultra-fast charging capabilities, drive continuous innovation in battery technology.
Despite the significant capital investment required to develop Formula E batteries, the potential for long-term returns is immense. Not only do battery suppliers earn revenue from the sale of batteries themselves, but they can also patent new technologies and licensing fees for mainstream EV automakers. Innovations developed for the racetrack, such as fast charging and immersion cooling, hold promise for enhancing EV performance and longevity on the road.
While Formula E and commercial EV’s have distinct battery requirements, the cross-pollination of technology between the two sectors is invaluable. Insights gained from Formula E charging technology, for example, could inform the development of faster charging solutions for passenger EV’s, driving the transition to electric mobility on a global scale.
As Formula E continues to push the boundaries of electric performance, it serves as a catalyst for innovation in the EV industry, accelerating the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future on and off the racetrack.
