ABB Formula E has shown what will be the series’ car from season five, which will start at the end of this year.
FIA has virtually unveiled the second generation car that will be used in ABB Formula E. The design is completely different to the current one, and the work put on it is clearly visible. The physical unveiling act will be held the 6th of March at the International Geneva Motor Show.
The most remarkable elements of the car are the new rear wing design and the enlargement of the diffuser. The rear wing is now a carbon fiber ‘sheet’ that is put together with the rear bumpers. As for the diffuser, its benefit should benefit the downforce generated by the flat floor.
Another notable addition is the HALO. FIA is eventually implementing that safety device on several series, and it was predictable that it would be on this new car. The front wing will be lower than the unusual, high, current one.
As for the batteries, they will be no longer supplied by Williams Advanced Engineering. It will be McLaren Applied Technologies who will make and supply it from next season. The chassis will be still made by Spark, who renewed its agreement with ABB Formula E.
It is expected that, with this car, pit-stops to change the car during the race will be no necessary anymore. The maximum power will be increased to 220 kWh on the race (currently it is 180 kWh), and 250 kWh on qualifying sessions.
This evolution of the series will also mark the arrival of new manufacturers. Electric power is attractive to car manufacturers and Nissan, Porsche and Mercedes are expected to join Audi, Citroen, BMW and other manufacturers that are already involved on the sport. This silent series is causing a lot of noise and his grewth is being noticed everywhere.
