Meet Formula E’s Fast, Efficient Gen3 Racer

Spark Gen 3 to Power Electric Race Series into the Future

Electric race series Formula E’s all-new new third-generation racecar will be the fastest electric racer yet. Unveiled over the past Monaco E-Prix by motorsport’s global governing body, the FIA the edgy new all-wheel drive Spark Gen3 gets a dramatic new design featuring stealthy aerodynamic upgrades along with improved power efficiency, and a top speed of over 200 mph, it makes its debut later in 2022.

Gen3 is Tuned to Race on Street Circuits

Spark Gen3 will equip Formula E for its the ninth World Championship season. It has been specifically tuned for racing on tight street circuits. The FIA claims this new all-electric race car represents the pinnacle of high performance, efficiency, and sustainability. To that end, it benefits several upgrades over the current Gen2 Evo racer, including a radical new 470 HP bi-motor set-up.

Said to be the first formula car to feature separate powertrains front and rear, Spark Gen3’s regenerative capability improves to 600kW, which is more than double the current car. The inclusion of a front motor also means there’s now no need for hydraulic brakes at the rear. The Gen3 further benefits ultra-rapid charging to enable it to refill its battery at a rate of 600 kW during a race.

Sustainability is another Spark Gen 3 strong point. Batteries will be recycled when they are no longer required.  Clever linen and recycled carbon fiber bodywork reduces the car’s carbon footprint by over 10%. 26% of Gen3’s tires comprise natural rubber and recycled fibers. Seven carmakers have committed to Formula E season 9. They include DS, Porsche, Jaguar, Maserati, Nissan, DS, Mahindra, and Nio, alongside motorsport outfits Andretti, Envision and Techeetah.

“The future of all-electric racing is bright.”

“The Spark Gen3 represents the ambitious third age of the Formula E World Championship.” Formula chairman Alejandro Agag explained. “Every generation has pushed the boundaries of possibility in EV technology. “Gen3 is our most ambitious project to date. “We are proud to reveal a car that has been two years in the making. “The future of all-electric racing is bright.”

Interestingly, while Formula E represents the acme of electric racing, Sam Bird’s Jaguar pole position time was 1m29.839s last weekend. That compares to Lewis Hamilton’s 2021 Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix Mercedes fastest lap time of 1m12.909s. That said, Formula E has dramatically improved over the years. Its first generation needed each driver to swap cars to make the hour race times in early seasons. Gen3 is not just far faster, but significantly more efficient too.

Photos: Formula E

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