Porsche announced its continued participation in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship with the next-generation electric racing model, Gen4. The new regulations featuring part-time all-wheel drive will test another technological challenge for the development of production vehicles starting from ‘Season 11’ next year. Through the Gen4 model, which is expected to be introduced in the 2026/2027 ‘Season 13’, participants hope to expand the scope of development and gain insights into road-going vehicles.
Michael Steiner, member of the Porsche AG R&D Board, emphasized, “We have considered our long-term plans for participating in Formula E from the very beginning, and the evolution of the racing vehicles showcases the potential for developing electrified models. We plan to gain more knowledge about production vehicles through Formula E.” He added that “Formula E, one of the most competitive motorsport series, motivates us to achieve excellent technology and contributes to the advancement of electrified models through our dedication to winning the championship.”
Thomas Laudenbach, Vice President of Porsche Motorsport, stated, “Porsche aims to pursue innovative technology and sustainability in motorsports through Formula E, seeking to be at the forefront of new technology development. The championship, known for its top-level racing, global attention, and high technical importance, provides the best stage for this, and motorsport technology will be transferred to all Porsche vehicles through the collaboration of our motorsport engineers and road project colleagues.” He further emphasized, “Porsche aims for technology that offers substantial benefits to customers, not just for the sake of technology development.”
Porsche joined Formula E at the beginning of the 2019/2020 season. At that time, the introduction of second-generation vehicles eliminated the need for vehicle changes due to driving range constraints. The current third generation delivers a maximum output of 350 kW, regenerative braking of up to 600 kW, and speeds exceeding 300 km/h. The upcoming “Gen3 Evo” boasts enhanced performance, while Gen4 is set to prepare for a next-generation technological leap with a target output of 600 kW and regenerative braking of 700 kW.
Jeff Dodds, CEO of Formula E, remarked, “Porsche plans to participate in the championship with unwavering commitment and innovation for at least the next four years, setting the stage for the highly anticipated Gen4 era to push the boundaries of technology and performance, establishing a new standard in global motorsports.” He also said, “This new partnership not only promises groundbreaking achievements based on Porsche’s expertise and high-performance powertrains but also fuels excitement for the thrilling future of Formula E.”
Alberto Longo, CCO and co-founder of the Formula E Championship, noted, “Through Porsche’s announcement of its participation in the Gen4 era of Formula E, they prove their commitment to expanding the boundaries of technology and motorsports, showcasing confidence in the championship for 2026. As one of the leaders in electric motorsports in collaboration with the FIA, Formula E perfectly aligns with Porsche’s vision for the future of racing and automotive development. Porsche utilizes Formula E as a platform for innovation and mass-produced electric sports car development, contributing to maintaining the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship as one of the most thrilling and competitive series in global motorsports.”
Pablo Martino, CEO of the FIA Formula E Championship, expressed, “We are thrilled to announce Porsche as the third manufacturer of the Gen4 era in Formula E. Like Nissan and Jaguar, who have also announced their participation, Porsche has long been synonymous with motorsports heritage and innovation. We look forward to continuing the thrilling moments of the championship with other confirmed or prospective manufacturers as we journey toward the future of electric racing until 2030.”
Porsche will participate in its fifth season of the 2023/2024 Formula E Championship. In addition to the team operated by TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team, the customer team Andretti Formula E from the U.S. will compete with the innovative electric racing car Porsche 99X Electric, developed at the carbon-neutral facility in Baijak. Through its championship participation plans, Porsche emphasizes its commitment to leading changes in electrification, sustainability, and technological areas among traditional automakers. Formula E provides Porsche with insights into mass-produced electric sports cars.
By Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr