For years, traditional motorsports have been associated with roaring engines, exhaust fumes, and the distinct aroma of fuel. Nonetheless, the advent of Formula E, the first-ever fully electric racing series, has been shaking up the industry since its inception in 2014. In this article, we dive into how Formula E has challenged the norms and revolutionised motorsports in multiple aspects.
Formula E vs Traditional Motorsports
The most obvious difference between Formula E and traditional motorsports is the use of electric-powered cars. With a focus on sustainable motorsports, Formula E has spearheaded the transition towards cleaner and greener power sources, challenging the industry’s conventional approach. The primary goal of the world’s first all-electric racing series is not only to provide excitement and entertainment but also to educate and inspire innovation. Formula E embodies a forward-thinking vision by demonstrating the possibilities of sustainability and innovation.
However, the races take place on street circuits in city centres, as opposed to conventional circuits specifically built for the sport. The city tracks used in Formula E are shorter and narrower than regular motorsports tracks. In this case, the smaller circuits and use of electric cars make Formula E races more challenging and exciting.
Eco-Friendly Approach
Going green has been a top priority for Formula E, and for a good reason. The series’ use of electric-powered cars significantly reduces carbon emissions and air pollution, conducive to a cleaner environment. Moreover, Formula E’s approach to sustainability extends beyond the races, with many teams using renewable energy sources to power their cars in the pit lane. This commitment has attracted more environmentally conscious fans and made the sport extra appealing to sponsors who prioritise sustainability.
The category has partnered with organisations that promote sustainability, such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The partnership aims to raise awareness about the importance of sustainability and encourage fans to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives. Additionally, Formula E made an announcement that it had achieved a net zero carbon footprint right from the beginning of its existence. This all-electric racing competition managed to offset its emissions from past seasons by investing in certified projects across all its race regions.
Expansion and Innovation
Formula E has been expanding rapidly since its first season, with races now held in newer cities on five continents, including New York, Marrakesh and Rome. The series started with ten teams and twenty drivers but has grown to twelve sides and twenty-four pilots. This development has allowed the series to showcase its innovative approach to racing, constantly pushing the boundaries of technology.
The series has consistently evolved its technology over the years after only eight seasons. The championship moved away from the mid-race car swaps of the Gen1 era and embraced the more advanced Gen2 car. The latest addition, the Gen3 car, is the epitome of high performance, efficiency, and sustainability. Every aspect of its production has been repurposed and rebuilt to ensure it sets a new standard of excellence.
The innovation didn’t end there, as the series introduced features such as Attack Mode and Fan Boost to make the races more unpredictable and exciting for fans. Both allow for temporarily boosting cars’ performance during the race, but that’s not all. Especially Fan Boost has the particularity to award drivers with an additional power burst based on fan voting via social media. It is safe to say that this novelty, undoubtedly, made Formula E one of the most fan-engaging and amusing sports worldwide.
Fan Engagement and Inclusivity
There has been a positive outcome regarding connectivity, particularly among younger fans invested in environmentalism and sustainability. The series has introduced various initiatives to make the sport more accessible to fans. One of them is the E-Village, a fan zone that provides entertainment and activities for fans during the race weekend. The E-Village has made the sport more family-friendly, thus attracting a broader audience.
The series has also been committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity in motorsports, strongly focusing on gender equality. Formula E was the first major racing series to feature the Girls on Track campaign in support of women in motorsports. Besides this, introduced the W Series, a racing series exclusively for female drivers. The W Series aims to provide a platform for young women to showcase their talent and compete on an equal footing with their male counterparts. Therefore, the initiative has made the sport more diverse and has captivated female fans, becoming a sensation for many passionate followers.
Final Thoughts
In just a few short years, Formula E has transformed the way we think about motorsports. With its eco-friendly approach, innovative technology, and commitment to inclusivity, the series has been at the forefront of sustainable and socially responsible racing. As the series continues to expand and evolve, we can only imagine the exciting developments that lie ahead for Formula E and the world of motorsports as a whole.