We’re only at the start of the 2019/20 Formula E season and there’s already talk of Gen3 cars. Planning is well underway for this next generation of Formula E and the upgraded cars should hit the tracks in 2022/23.
What will the introduction of Gen3 cars mean for Formula E? Here we take a look at three ways Gen3 will take Formula E to the next level.
Power boost drawing in the fans
According to E-racing365, the Gen3 power train is likely to have 450kW regeneration capability, up from 250kW at present. This would put Gen3 cars almost on a par with Formula 2 cars.
Such a jump in power will surely create quicker and more exciting races, which will keep existing fans tuning in. It could also help draw in the die-hard motorsport fans who, up until now, may have discounted Formula E.
The power of Gen3 cars would still be some way off the single seater super series (F1 cars have 670kW of power). However, the huge progress the cars are making is helping to cement Formula E’s place on the motorsport map.
Gen3 cars adding pit stop drama
Remember the good old days when drivers had to stop mid-race to swap cars? While car swapping is out, pit stops could definitely be in if current plans for Gen3 cars are realised.
The FIA is considering introducing super-quick pit stops for the 2022/23 season. Cars could be charged up to full capacity in a 30-second window, which is pretty mind-blowing. This is even more impressive when you consider there are currently no chargers in existence that are capable of this.
It’s not clear whether such advanced charging capability can be developed in time for the introduction of Gen3 cars. What is certain, however, is that reintroducing pit stops will add another strategic layer to Formula E. After the success of Attack Mode, pit stops are sure to be a hit with the crowds.
Staying true to FE’s mission
A central tenet of Formula E’s mission is “to break down the barriers to the electric vehicle market.”
As Formula E’s new CEO Jamie Reigle recently commented, “a perception…around charging availability and ‘how quickly I can get my car charged” is one of the main barriers to a broader take-up of road electric vehicles.
If the developers of Gen3 cars manage to pull off superfast charging, it will be a major step towards improving perceptions of electric vehicles. It would, of course, take some time for this technology to transfer from FE to real roads. But, with so much investment and dedication from teams, superfast chargers could hit the mainstream sooner than we think.
Pushing the boundaries of what is possible is what Formula E is all about and Gen3 cars won’t disappoint.
