More power, more efficiency - The evolution of the Formula E racing machine

Formula E has really taken the automotive world by storm, with the series showcasing that it is indeed possible to race with an all-electric car. From what started as a dream or discussion in 2011 turned into a fully-fledged series in 2014.

Since the first season, Formula E has grown, and the cars evolved, becoming better, faster, and more efficient.

The first generation (Gen1) Formula E car did not have the most powerful engine. But then again, we must remember that electric vehicle (EV) technology was less advanced than it is today. The Gen1 cars used a 28kWh Lithium-ion battery that Williams Advanced Engineering supplied.

The engine pushed out 200kW in normal race mode, 150kW in power saving mode, and 230kW in push-to-pass mode. The FIA regulated the top speed at 225km/h, with 0-100km/h cleared in approximately three seconds.

Gen2

In 2018, Formula E introduced its Gen2 car. And yes, it was quicker and much more efficient than the first. The sport also moved away from Williams and signed with McLaren Applied Technologies for a 54kWh battery, which, at 385kg, was 185kg heavier than Gen1's battery. The car's minimum mass, with the driver, also increased to 900kg - an increase of 2kg over Gen 1.

But the bigger capacity battery meant more power. It now generated 200kW in normal race mode, 225kW in Attack Mode, and 250kW in FanBoost mode (ah, these wonderful naming conventions).

The Gen2 car could go from standstill to 100km/h in 2.8 seconds, while the FIA also approved a 280km/h top speed.

Gen3 - a new era

2023 would change the Formula E game again, but this time in a big way.

The battery capacity decreased to 51kWh over Gen2, but it also weighed a whopping 101kg less! But don't think that the power outputs dipped, because