Formula E and the FIA have presented teams with a first look at the upcoming Gen3 car at pre-season testing in Valencia, as well are revealing some technical details of the package. Due to be delivered to teams in early 2022, one of the most significant updates is the addition of front-axle energy recuperation, thanks to a 250kW generator unit, giving a peak regen capability of 600kW when combined with the 350kW rear MGU (up from 250kW in the Gen 2 car).
As a result of this additional recovery, it is claimed that at least 40% of the energy used during a race will be harvested under braking. Notably, the cars will remain rear drive only. Coupled with the updated drivetrain layout will be a new battery developed by Williams Advanced Engineering. Notably, the high level of energy recovery also means that mechanical rear brakes have been deemed unnecessary.
Further efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the series will involve the use of tires that feature a sizable proportion of sustainable and recycled materials in their construction, while damaged composite bodywork will also be sent for recycling. On the subject of bodywork, though the majority of the car is obscured in the initial teaser images, they do suggest that it will have no rear wing, instead relying on underbody aerodynamic features for downforce generation.
Jamie Reigle, Formula E CEO, said, “In designing the Gen3 car, we set out to demonstrate that high performance, efficiency and sustainability can co-exist without compromise. Together with the FIA, we have built the world’s most efficient and sustainable high performance race car.
“The Gen3 is our fastest, lightest, most powerful and efficient racing car yet. It is a creature designed for its habitat: racing on city streets in wheel-to-wheel combat. We look forward to witnessing it inspire and excite the next generation of motorsport fans in cities around the world from Season 9 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.”
