The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship is set to launch Pit Boost, which is designed to enhance strategy, unpredictability and fan engagement, while also showcasing cutting-edge, ultra-fast EV charging technology. The new feature will debut at selected races during Season 11.
The innovative mid-race feature provides a 10% energy increase (3.85kWh) to the cars through a 30-second, 600kW rapid recharge in the pitlane. This mandatory sporting feature adds another strategic element during races, with the potential to alter race tactics and outcomes, making it more interesting.
Pit Boost is set to redefine race strategy in Formula E as teams will have to weigh the benefits of an energy boost against the risk of losing track position during the pit stop. However, choosing the optimal moment to deploy Pit Boost will be game-changing. Pit Boost will debut during Formula E’s Jeddah E-Prix in Saudi Arabia, February 14-15, 2025.
Alberto Longo, co-founder and chief championship officer at Formula E, said, “Pit Boost will challenge teams and drivers to make high-stakes decisions under intense pressure. The potential for dramatic overtakes, unexpected twists and human ingenuity will elevate the excitement for our fans and showcase Formula E and the FIA’s relentless commitment to innovation. As a series born to enhance the technology transfer from the racetrack to the road, it marks a step change for consumer vehicles and the potential of EV performance.”
Marek Nawarecki, the FIA’s senior circuit sport director, said, “Following a comprehensive testing program, we are glad to once again be able to push the boundaries of electric mobility with the introduction of Pit Boost. Part of the FIA Technical and Sporting Regulations, this pioneering new feature will add another strategic element to the sport, underscoring the FIA’s steadfast commitment to developing evermore advanced race-to-road technologies – an approach that is perfectly exemplified by the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.”
The Pit Boost feature has undergone extensive simulation and testing to ensure its safety, reliability and race-enhancing potential. It is deployed during a 34-second stationary pit stop and is independent of existing Attack Mode rules. No more than two members of the pit crew may work on the car during the Pit Boost, plus one assigned specifically to stop and release the car. Similarly, only one car at a time per team may carry out Pit Boost.
The FIA will determine the window during which teams may use Pit Boost (depending on a determined ‘status of charge’ value), which will be shared with teams 21 days prior to each race.
