Here’s Five Things Different In Formula E’s New Gen3 Car

It’s the dawn of a new era for Formula E, as the third iteration of its electric racer broke cover in Monaco ahead of the Monaco E-Prix. As is the case with the previous generation leap, the Gen3 racer takes another quantum leap over its predecessor. Here’s a look at five key things that’s different in the Gen3 car:

More Grunt

The biggest change in the Gen3 car is more power on tap. Its rear-mounted electric motor now makes 350kW (470PS), a better 100kW (135PS) than the Gen2 model at 250kW (335PS). But, wait, there’s more, as Formula E goes the AWD route for the first time with a new front-mounted electric powertrain adding another 250kW, which combined makes 600kW (816PS) of regenerative grunt. All this translates to a top speed of 320kmph.

No Hydraulic Rear Brakes

There will be no rear hydraulic brakes on the Gen3 car. Instead, what will help in stopping power for the rear axle will be the front electric motor with under regenerative braking. In fact, Formula E claims more than 40 percent of the energy used within a Gen3 race will be produced by regenerative braking.

Fighter Jet On Wheels

Formula E has small hints of a fighter jet design philosophy with the Gen2 car, but the design overhaul in its latest iteration really does make it like a jet on wheels. If you thought the additional powertrain would make the Gen3 car heavier, it's the complete opposite as Formula E has managed to shave 60kg compared to the Gen2 car. 

Cleaner Materials

Being a motorsport series that thrives on being ‘green’ Formula E has focused on sustainability with the Gen3 car. The batteries are made out of sustainably-sourced minerals, and will be reused and recycled at the end of its life. Also, linen and recycled carbon fibre will be used in bodywork construction for the electric racer. 

New Tyres 

There’ll be a different pair of boots keeping the Gen3 car stuck to the track, as Hankook will replace Michelin as Formula E’s tyre supplier. In fact, 26 percent of the tyre will comprise natural rubber and recycled fibres, and all tyres will be fully recycled after racing.

To see the Gen3 Formula E electric racer on track though, you’ll have to wait a little longer, as it will make its racing debut in Season 9 (2022-23) of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. So far, seven teams have registered, with pre-season testing kicking off in the winter period.