What is Formula E? – An All Electric Racing Series to Replace the Lotus series?

Formula E, formally the ABB Formula E Championship, is an open-air, electric vehicle racing championship for electric cars. The series was born in 2011 in Paris, by former FIA president Jean Todt. Since its inception, Formulae has built a strong fan base and has rapidly gained a reputation as one of the most technologically advanced and exciting forms of motor racing in the world today. It enjoys a large following of both the casual driver and the hardcore Formula E enthusiast who race in a variety of countries, such as the USA, UK, China, Mexico, Brazil, and Russia.

In the season running from June to November, Formula E features the popular races of the season, such as the Monaco GP, the Berlin GP, and the Brixham GP. This is due to the fact that China holds the rights to hosting the Formula E races for the entire year. This makes for a huge financial draw for both the organizers and the drivers, with a sizeable prize money up for grabs, as well as the chance to qualify for the races for the Constructor’s title, which is available to the winning teams. As well as competing in the season races, Formula E also tours around the world, visiting cities such as Monaco, Montreal, Toronto, Buenos Aires and Barcelona.

Although the first season of Formula E had a few problems, such as power deficits and reliability issues, the second season has so far been more successful, with better track surfaces, greater visibility and increased speed, as well as greater onboard amenities and facilities. Whilst this has been good news for drivers and teams alike, the introduction of the all-electric system in place for the first time this season could spell the end of the traditional Formula E racing series, as electric power is now a necessity for success. Will the manufacturers, entering an agreement with ABB, ever produce an all-electric car that can challenge the all-conquering Formula E? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure, as long as battery technology improves there will be no stopping the racehorse.