Formula E will initiate a new era with the Gen4 prototypes in the 2026-27 season, but the peloton race format will continue to be a prominent feature. This will come alongside significant technical changes, although drivers anticipate that the races will maintain a style of action similar to what fans have known so far.
This new era will see a revision of the sporting format, which will include sprint races and a long-duration race. The specific details of this format have yet to be confirmed, but it is known that sprint races will allow for a more intense pushing, while long-duration races may retain elements of energy conservation.
Mahindra Racing driver Nyck de Vries has expressed his views on the new races, noting that, although there is a reduction in energy consumption, there will still be strategic elements similar to those they have experienced with vehicles from the previous generation. ‘The long-duration race will move towards the peloton format,’ de Vries said.
Since its inception, energy conservation has been a key factor in Formula E, forcing drivers to manage energy during races. However, some drivers, like Sebastien Buemi, have expressed concern over the ‘convoy’ competition style in previous races, where several competitors slowed down to conserve energy, resulting in a grouping of all vehicles.
Regarding the Gen4 era, Edoardo Mortara has agreed with de Vries that the race format will remain the same. He indicated that, although more competitive sprint races can be expected, energy conservation will continue to be a constant in strategies, with a focus on managing the race efficiently.
Mortara has highlighted the complexity of energy management within Formula E compared to other categories, emphasizing that the championship requires unique attention and strategy from the drivers.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
