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Lewis frequently travels globally to cover Grands Prix events for Crash.net. He primarily focuses on on-site reporting, sharing the narratives of key figures within the sport.

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Pascal Wehrlein disqualified from leading position in Paris Formula E race, both Mahindra vehicles fail to meet tyre pressure standards

Pascal Wehrlein has lost his pole position for the Formula E event in Paris on Saturday, following a ruling that both vehicles from the Mahindra team did not maintain the necessary tyre pressure minimum.

Wehrlein managed to surpass Nissan's Oliver Rowland, securing his second Formula E pole position at the Les Invalides circuit in Paris on a Saturday afternoon. However, due to a rule violation, he will start the race from the back of the grid.

Jerome d'Ambrosio, another team member who had secured the sixth position in qualifying, will also be moved to the back of the pack due to the violation.

Pascal Wehrlein has lost his pole position spot for the upcoming Formula E race in Paris on Saturday due to both Mahindra vehicles being found to have operated with tyre pressures below the mandated minimum level.

Wehrlein secured his second Formula E pole position at the Les Invalides circuit in Paris on a Saturday afternoon, surpassing Nissan's Oliver Rowland. However, due to a violation, he will be relegated to the back of the grid.

Jerome d'Ambrosio, who had secured the sixth position in the qualifiers, will also be relegated to the back of the pack due to the infraction.

This elevates Rowland to the top spot, while his Nissan colleague Sebastien Buemi secures a position next to him at the forefront of the starting lineup.

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VIDEO: Highlights from the Formula E Paris E-Prix

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McLaren Racing has secured an opportunity to join the FIA Formula E championship starting in the 2022-23 season, marking the beginning of the Gen3 era.

In its continuous review of possible new racing platforms, McLaren will dedicate the remainder of 2021 to contemplating participation before making a decision on whether to enter Formula E for its ninth season.

Currently, McLaren faces restrictions on participating as a team in Formula E due to McLaren Applied serving as the official supplier of batteries for the series. However, this limitation will be removed once their contract concludes at the end of the eighth season, paving the way for a possible entry into the competition.

Following the departure of Audi and BMW from Formula E after the 2021 season concludes, two openings have become available for the 2022-23 season. This upcoming season will also mark the debut of the Gen3 vehicle and the implementation of a budget limitation.

By entering into an option agreement with Formula E, McLaren secures a spot on the starting line should it choose to move forward.

"McLaren Racing's CEO, Zak Brown, mentioned that they have been carefully watching Formula E for a while now, keeping an eye on the series' development and what lies ahead."

"Having the chance to reserve a spot, coupled with the finalization of the contract between McLaren Applied and the FIA at the conclusion of Gen 2, provides us with ample time to determine whether Formula E aligns with McLaren's vision for a prospective competitive arena."

In addition to its Formula 1 activities, McLaren expanded its motorsports presence by participating in IndyCar starting in 2020 and has explored the possibility of competing in both the World Endurance Championship and IMSA.

"McLaren Racing's decision to acquire an option for participation in the Formula E grid starting with Gen3 underscores the persistent influence of our sport," Formula E CEO Alejandro Agag stated.

"We're excited to announce that McLaren Racing is considering joining Formula E, a competition that already features some of the most renowned figures in motorsport."

Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix worldwide for Crash.net. He typically reports directly from the event, sharing the narratives of the key figures in the sport.

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Various fines for technical infractions: A summary of all Formula E penalties at the Sao Paulo E-Prix

By Tobias Wirtz on December 7, 2024, at 10:40 AM

As is the case with every Formula E race, the race stewards from the International Automobile Federation (FIA) are once again responsible for ensuring compliance with the technical and sporting regulations in the new season. If any rules are breached, it is their duty to determine the appropriate penalties. This article provides you with a customary list of all the decisions made by the Formula E race stewards.

At the Sao Paulo E-Prix 2024, Felipe Maluhy, Matthias Heinz, and Achim Loth will take on this role. They will be assisted by former race driver Pedro Couceiro. The Portuguese driver enjoyed a 20-year career as a professional racer and, following his retirement, served as a safety car driver in the World Endurance Championship (WEC). Below, you will find the usual list of all the race stewards' decisions.

Penalties in Outdoor Practice

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Podcasts

Episode 348

Forecast for Sao Paulo: 90% Chance of Rain

December 5, 2024 | Duration: 24 minutes and 47 seconds

The extended off-season has finally ended, and it's time for previews once more. Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz examine the track in Sao Paulo for you, talk about the top contenders in Brazil, and discuss the TV and streaming broadcasts. Additionally, they cover the December weather in Brazil and present another episode of the Grid Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

Episode Number

FE: A Guide for Newcomers

November 30, 2024 | Duration: 1 hour and 55 seconds

Just before the start of the eleventh Formula E season, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz aim to address numerous fundamental questions about motorsport, with a focus on Formula E, in their Beginners' Guide. This guide is particularly intended for newcomers to the sport. To assist in this endeavor, they've enlisted the help of Daniel Goggi, the Formula E commentator for ServusTV and DF1. Together, they not only answer a variety of beginner questions but also engage in broader discussions about Formula E and share insights on what many fans think about the series. Enjoy listening!

Chapter 346

Analysis of Madrid: 38 Truck Journeys

November 21, 2024 | Duration: 33 minutes and 7 seconds

In this episode, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz reflect on the pre-season test drives in Madrid. Although the lap times don't hold much significance, there are still some intriguing insights to discuss as the season opener in Sao Paulo approaches. The pair also talk about the inaugural test session exclusively for female drivers in Formula E. Additionally, they share new details about pit stops featuring rapid charging and discuss a special appearance by the Formula E World Champion driving a car with a roof. Enjoy listening!

Episode 345, Part

FE: Preview of Jarama: Last-Minute Schedule Change

November 4, 2024 | Length: 5 minutes and 4 seconds

The title of our preview for the Valencia test drives has not aged well: instead of sunshine, Spain experienced severe storms, particularly impacting the Valencia region with catastrophic destruction. In response, Formula E quickly relocated the test drives to Jarama, near Madrid, where they will take place from Tuesday to Friday. In this solo episode, Tobi Wirtz also shares some new information about the drivers participating in the test sessions. Enjoy listening!

Episode 345

Previewing Valencia: A Journey to the Sunny South

October 30, 2024 | Duration: 28 minutes and 19 seconds

It's preview time again! Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz look ahead to the test drives in Valencia. They also discuss the potential return of a German driver and the women's test set to take place at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. The hottest topic in the paddock, however, is the news that two teams have exceeded the Formula E cost cap and will face penalties in Valencia. Additionally, there's a new episode of our popular Grid Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

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December 7th

Formula E in São Paulo: A Look at the Qualifying Groups

December 3rd

Formula E: Sergio Sette Camara Takes on Role as Reserve & Simulator Driver for Nissan

November 30

Podcast: A Starter's Guide for New Formula E Fans – November 15

Video: Listen to the Sound of the New Gen3 Evo Cars in Formula E Season 11

November 4th

Official Announcement: David Beckmann Participates in Jarama Test Drives for Kiro Race Co

Audio Series

Episode 348

Formula E Preview for Sao Paulo: 90 Percent Chance of Rain

December 5, 2024 | Length: 24 minutes and 47 seconds

The lengthy offseason has finally come to an end, and it's time for previews once more. Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz are taking a closer look at the track in Sao Paulo for you. They discuss the top contenders in Brazil and provide details on TV and streaming coverage. Additionally, they talk about the December weather in Brazil and present a new episode of the Grid-Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

Episode number

FE: A Guide for Beginners

November 30, 2024 | Duration: 1 hour and 55 seconds

Just before the start of the eleventh Formula E season, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz aim to address numerous fundamental questions about motorsport, with a particular focus on Formula E, in their Beginners' Guide. This guide is especially designed for newcomers to the sport. To assist them, they've brought in Daniel Goggi, the Formula E commentator for ServusTV and DF1. Together, they not only tackle a variety of questions from beginners but also engage in a broader discussion about Formula E and share what many fans think about the series. Enjoy listening!

Episode 346

Analysis Report from Madrid: 38 Truck Trips

Date: November 21, 2024 | Duration: 33 minutes and 7 seconds

In this episode, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz reflect on the preseason test drives held in Madrid. Although the lap times don't provide much meaningful data, there are several intriguing insights as the season approaches its start in Sao Paulo. The duo also discusses the inaugural test session exclusively for female drivers in Formula E. Additionally, they share new information regarding pit stops with fast charging and mention an appearance by the Formula E world champion in a car with a roof. Enjoy listening!

Episode 345 and a half

Formula E Preview for Jarama: Last-Minute Rescheduling

November 4, 2024 | Duration: 5 minutes and 4 seconds

The title of our preview for the Valencia test drives didn't age well: instead of sunny weather, Spain was hit by a severe storm, particularly affecting the Valencia region and causing massive destruction. In response, Formula E quickly relocated the test sessions to Jarama, near Madrid, where they will take place from Tuesday to Friday. Additionally, Tobi Wirtz shares some new information about the drivers participating in the tests in this solo episode. Enjoy listening!

Episode 345

Preview of Valencia: Journey to the Sunny South

October 30, 2024 | Duration: 28 minutes and 19 seconds

It's preview time once again! Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz look ahead to the test drives in Valencia. They also discuss the potential return of a German driver and the women’s test set to take place at Circuit Ricardo Tormo. However, the hottest topic in the paddock is the fact that two teams have exceeded the Formula E budget cap and will face penalties in Valencia. Additionally, there's a new episode of our popular Grid Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

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Formula E in São Paulo: Evans Triumphs in Chaotic Race from Last Place, Wehrlein Involved in Rollover

By Timo Pape, December 7, 2024, 8:02 PM

Mitch Evans emerged victorious at the chaotic Formula E season opener in São Paulo, starting from the very last position on the grid! Antonio Felix da Costa finished in second place, while Taylor Barnard pulled off a remarkable third-place finish for McLaren, despite having been lapped earlier in the race. The event saw two red flag interruptions, one of which was due to a dramatic rollover by Pascal Wehrlein, who fortunately escaped without injury.

As everyone anticipated the start, an initial incident occurred: Robin Frijns was frantically waving his hands because his Envision car had completely shut down, leading to an initial suspension of the start. Track marshals pushed the Jaguar customer car backward through the starting grid and eventually back into the pit lane. The race began with a delay of a little over four minutes. Pole sitter Pascal Wehrlein did not get off the line as well as his qualifying final opponent, Oliver Rowland, resulting in the British driver in the Nissan taking the lead. Behind them, Max Günther overtook Jake Dennis, who then reported minor damage to his front right and complained about Günther over the radio: "Max is just being Max."

The São Paulo race kicks off with a thrilling start as Oliver Rowland overtakes Pascal Wehrlein to take the lead! #SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/ZoVbzkMxQM — Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

Mitch Evans had an exceptional start, advancing from last place to 15th within just one lap! Sam Bird also gained several positions. In the second lap, there was a more serious collision: almost simultaneously in Turn 6, slight contacts occurred between Jake Hughes and Sebastien Buemi as well as between Nico Müller and David Beckmann. Hughes lost control first and slid sideways into the wall at the exit of the turn, followed by Müller, who experienced the same fate directly behind him. He skidded into the already crashed Maserati. Both drivers were unable to continue and had to be towed away. The race officials deployed the safety car onto the track.

A significant collision occurred involving Mueller and Hughes as their vehicles made contact while exiting the chicane. Thankfully, both drivers are unharmed. The Porsche Safety Car has been deployed. #SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/YxfGBHnUa1

— Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

In the sixth round out of 31, the race picked up pace once more. At the restart, the leaders maintained their positions without any overtaking. Soon after, the first drivers activated their mandatory Attack Modes for the first time, out of the two required uses. This season, the new all-wheel-drive mode significantly amplifies the impact of the high-performance mode. As a result, Nick Cassidy swiftly advanced to the front of the pack. Meanwhile, local favorite Lucas di Grassi had to retire his Lola Yamaha ABT due to a technical issue, which also left him with a damaged front wing.

In the 11th lap, Norman Nato took the lead from Cassidy while in attack mode. However, bad news struck for the Nissan driver and both McLaren pilots: all three received a drive-through penalty for "power overuse" because the Nissan cars had briefly drawn too much energy from their batteries. As a result, they dropped to the back of the pack. Cassidy regained the lead but had already used two percent more energy due to the attack mode. By the 13th lap, Rowland was back in front, while the two Porsche drivers were now racing at the lower end of the top 10.

Red Flag after Dennis Malfunction

Shortly before the race reached its halfway point, Rowland was the last driver to activate his first Attack Mode, yet he maintained his lead. Following him at this stage were Cassidy, Dennis, Evans, Nyck de Vries, and rookie Zane Maloney. In terms of energy levels, things looked particularly favorable for Rowland, Dennis, and Felix da Costa. Meanwhile, Wehrlein fought his way back to the front using Attack Mode, taking the lead for the first time in the 18th lap of the Sao Paulo E-Prix. His teammate employed the same strategy and overtook Rowland a lap later, securing a one-two lead for Porsche.

Rowland responded by activating his second Attack Mode, briefly dropping to fourth place behind de Vries. At that point, all of the top five drivers were using Attack Mode. On lap 20, Felix da Costa overtook his Porsche teammate Wehrlein to take the lead. Dennis faced a tense moment when his brakes failed to work properly as he approached Turn 1, causing him to go straight ahead. Fortunately, he stopped without hitting another car, but his Andretti car displayed a "red" status, indicating it was unsafe. As a result, race officials had to suspend the E-Prix with a red flag.

? RED FLAG ? Jake Dennis has come to a halt on the circuit. His vehicle is experiencing an isolation problem. #SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/GavGs9vNVy — Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

Rowland lost about 3 minutes and 30 seconds of Attack Mode, but he still managed to move up in the adjusted standings. When the red flag was shown, it was Felix da Costa who was in the lead. The drivers right behind them—Günther, Wehrlein, and Mortara—had all already completed both of their Attack Modes. This situation seemed favorable for Felix da Costa and Rowland. However, both Jaguar drivers still had one Attack Mode available. At this point, Cassidy was in 6th place, which suddenly gave him a strong chance to win, while his teammate Evans was in 11th place. McLaren, with its remaining Attack Modes, was also suddenly considered a dark horse for a podium finish.

Drama for Rowland as Jaguar Makes Its Way Through the Field

After a very long interruption of more than half an hour, the race finally resumed with a standing start. Rowland got off to a better start once again, overtaking Felix da Costa in the process! Wehrlein also lost a position. Suddenly, Günther found himself in second place behind Rowland. In the 24th lap, Cassidy activated his second attack mode, initially dropping to 8th place. He then launched an aggressive push forward. Meanwhile, Maloney was handed a drive-through penalty for "power overuse," and David Beckmann, making his debut as a full-time driver, dropped to the back of the field due to damage to his car's left rear, which forced him to pit.

The race is back on! Oliver Rowland overtakes António Félix da Costa at the first corner as the competition heats up. Only nine laps are left in the São Paulo E-Prix. #SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/cplSjR7r9Z

As anticipated, Cassidy swiftly moved up through the field and was in second place with four laps remaining. However, his attack mode expired with a 2.5-second gap behind Rowland. Then came the second all-wheel-drive Jaguar: Evans, like his teammate before him, charged through the field and soon took third place. Disaster struck for Nissan as the leader, Rowland, was handed a drive-through penalty for "power overuse," dropping him to twelfth place. In the 29th lap, Evans overtook his teammate Cassidy to seize the lead! Due to the Safety Car, the race length was extended from 31 to 35 laps.

World Champion Wehrlein Faces a Dramatic Turn of Events

In a surprising move, Felix da Costa launched an unexpected attack on Cassidy, overtaking him to secure second place. Following closely, the two McLaren cars, benefiting from Attack Mode and a significant energy advantage, surged forward after having spent significant time trailing the pack as lapped vehicles. What ensued was pure chaos: Wehrlein, Cassidy, and Günther found themselves side by side heading into the corner. Initially, contact occurred between Cassidy and Günther, resulting in Günther sliding into the right barrier. During this incident, Cassidy's car might have also sustained damage, potentially affecting his steering capabilities.

In any case, during the next right-hand turn, he veered into Wehrlein, who was driving to his left, causing Wehrlein to be lifted off the ground. Wehrlein's Porsche became airborne, smashed into the catch fence, rolled over, and eventually came to a stop upside down. The race officials immediately halted the event with a red flag. The most important news: Wehrlein announced over the team radio that he was unharmed. A few minutes later, a crane flipped the Porsche back onto its wheels, allowing Wehrlein to exit the vehicle with the help of safety personnel and be taken to the medical center.

Pascal Wehrlein, the current world champion, was involved in a significant collision with Nick Cassidy. Pascal confirmed he was unharmed and exited the vehicle soon after the incident. This occurred at the São Paulo E-Prix, as shared on Twitter by Formula E on December 7, 2024.

Final Stage: Evans Secures a Dramatic Finish

At 19:47 CET, the field of racers returned to the track behind the safety car. With four laps remaining, the top five positions were held by Evans, Felix da Costa, Barnard, Bird, and Mortara. This time, a rolling start was initiated, with Evans setting the pace. The New Zealander successfully defended his lead, despite Felix da Costa's aggressive presence in his rearview mirror. The closing laps were filled with excitement, as Evans skillfully maintained his position.

In the final lap, both Evans and Felix da Costa faced the risk of running out of energy, but they managed to cross the finish line just in time. Mitch Evans clinched victory from the back of the grid in the opening race of the 2024/25 Formula E season, marking his 13th career win. Felix da Costa secured second place, while Taylor Barnard delivered a remarkable performance by reaching the podium in his debut as a full-time driver. "I just can't believe it," he radioed to his McLaren team. Barnard's podium finish made him the youngest in Formula E history, surpassing Daniel Abt.

MITCH EVANS MAKES STUNNING COMEBACK! ?An extraordinary performance by @mitchevans_ ?#SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/VOThNscmZx

— Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

The drivers' standings for the World Championship closely reflect the race results. McLaren is leading among the teams, with a narrow two-point advantage over Jaguar. Porsche and Mahindra are in third and fourth place, respectively. In the new manufacturers' championship, however, Jaguar holds a two-point lead over Nissan, with Porsche again in third position. Lola Yamaha was the only manufacturer to finish without any points during its Formula E debut.

The next Formula E race is scheduled for January 11th in the new year, when the electric racing series will visit Mexico for its second event of the season.

Results & Times

Overall Standings (Drivers, Teams & Manufacturers)

A massive collision involving our reigning world champion, Pascal Wehrlein, and Nick Cassidy occurred. Pascal assured that he was unharmed and exited the car shortly afterward. #SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/i2kCk2Gqvy

— Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

Final Phase: Evans Manages to Reach the Finish Line

At 7:47 PM CET, the field returned to the track once more, following the Safety Car. At this stage, only four laps remained. The top five drivers were Evans, Felix da Costa, Barnard, Bird, and Mortara. This time, the race resumed with a "flying" start, with Evans setting the pace. The racer from New Zealand held onto his lead, though Felix da Costa was looming aggressively in his rearview mirror. The closing laps were filled with tension, but Evans skillfully defended his position.

In the final lap, both Evans and Felix da Costa faced the risk of running out of energy before the finish line. However, they managed to make it just in time. Mitch Evans, starting from the back of the grid, claimed victory in the opening race of the 2024/25 Formula E season, marking his 13th career win! Felix da Costa secured second place, while Taylor Barnard made an impressive debut as a regular driver by landing on the podium. "I just can't believe it," he radioed to his McLaren team. Barnard became the youngest driver ever to stand on a Formula E podium, surpassing Daniel Abt's record.

From Last Place to Victory! ?An astonishing performance by @mitchevans_ ?#SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/VOThNscmZx

— Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

The standings in the driver's championship closely mirror the race results. In the team rankings, McLaren is in the lead, holding a two-point advantage over Jaguar. Porsche and Mahindra are positioned in third and fourth place, respectively. Conversely, in the new manufacturer's championship, Jaguar is at the forefront, maintaining a two-point lead over Nissan. Porsche also occupies the third spot here. Lola Yamaha, participating in its Formula E debut, was the only manufacturer not to score any points.

The upcoming Formula E race is scheduled for January 11 in the new year. At that time, the electric racing series will make a stop in Mexico for its second event of the season.

Results & Schedules

Overall Standings (Drivers, Teams & Manufacturers)

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Podcasts

Episode 348

Forecast for Sao Paulo: 90 Percent Chance of Rain

December 5, 2024 | Duration: 24 minutes and 47 seconds

The extended off-season has come to an end, and it's time for a preview once more. Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz take a closer look at the Sao Paulo track, talk about the top contenders in Brazil, and discuss the TV and streaming coverage. They also delve into the December weather in Brazil and present another edition of the Grid Dummies quiz. Enjoy listening!

Episode 347

Title: Introduction to FE for Newcomers

Date: November 30, 2024 | Duration: 1 hour and 55 seconds

Just before the start of the eleventh Formula E season, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz aim to address a variety of basic questions related to motorsports, and particularly Formula E, in their Beginners' Guide, which is especially designed for newcomers to the series. To help with this, they've brought in Daniel Goggi, the Formula E commentator from ServusTV and DF1. Together, they not only tackle numerous beginner questions but also engage in a broader discussion about Formula E and share insights on what many fans think about the series. Enjoy listening!

Episode Number

Title: Analysis of Madrid: 38 Truck Journeys

Date: November 21, 2024 | Duration: 33 minutes and 7 seconds

In this episode, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz reflect on the pre-season test drives held in Madrid. Although the lap times don't hold much significance, there are several intriguing insights just ahead of the season kickoff in Sao Paulo. The duo also discusses the inaugural test session exclusively for female drivers in Formula E. Additionally, they provide updates on the fast-charging pit stops and feature a special appearance by the Formula E World Champion driving a car with a roof. Enjoy listening!

Episode 345 and a half

Formula E Preview for Jarama: Last-Minute Schedule Change

November 4, 2024 | Duration: 5 minutes and 4 seconds

The title of our preview for the Valencia test drives has not aged well: Instead of sunny weather, Spain was hit by a severe storm, especially affecting the Valencia region and causing widespread devastation. In response, Formula E quickly shifted the test sessions to Jarama, near Madrid, where they will take place from Tuesday to Friday. Additionally, Tobi Wirtz shares some new information about the drivers participating in these test sessions in this solo episode. Enjoy listening!

Episode Number

Preview of Valencia: Journey to the Sunny South

October 30, 2024 | Duration: 28 minutes and 19 seconds

It's preview time once again! Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz look ahead to the test drives in Valencia. They also discuss the potential return of a German driver and the women's test event set to take place at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. However, the hottest topic in the paddock is that two teams have breached the Formula E budget cap and will face penalties in Valencia. Additionally, there's a new episode of our popular Grid Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

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Formula E in Sao Paulo: World Champion Wehrlein Secures Thrilling Pole Position in Season's First Qualifying

By Timo Pape, December 7, 2024, 3:12 PM

Pascal Wehrlein clinched the first pole position of the new 2024/25 Formula E season in Sao Paulo! In a thrilling showdown against Oliver Rowland from Nissan, the Porsche driver turned the tables just before the end, securing not only the top starting spot but also the first three World Championship points. Jake Dennis from Andretti and Max Günther from DS Penske earned spots in the second row. Meanwhile, Jaguar's Mitch Evans faced a significant setback.

Group A: Fresh Energy in the Group Stage – Dennis Takes the Lead

Typically, qualifying groups are organized based on the current championship standings. However, at the start of the season, the eleven teams have the liberty to choose which of their drivers will compete in each group. This results in every team being represented once in each group. Among the frontrunners in Group A were Oliver Rowland and Jake Dennis, but several other fast drivers were also on the track. In the initial minutes, Sam Bird topped the leaderboard, with Lucas di Grassi, Antonio Felix da Costa, and David Beckmann trailing behind.

However, unlike in previous years, not all drivers made pit stops to change tires, leading to a different dynamic on the track. Instead of setting the fastest laps at six and twelve minutes, times were consistently beaten, with Jake Dennis among those improving his performance. After completing a quick lap, Dennis communicated over the radio, saying, "The tires are done." This was due to the new, softer Hankook tires having a significantly narrower temperature range for optimal performance. Despite setting his fastest time relatively early, Dennis was exceptionally quick.

The Briton maintained his lead even after time ran out. Alongside him, Felix da Costa, Rowland, and Jean-Eric Vergne secured their spots in the duel phase. However, disappointment struck the reigning champion team, Jaguar, as Nick Cassidy finished in fifth place. Following him were Sebastien Buemi, di Grassi, last year's winner Bird, Jake Hughes, Beckmann, and Nyck de Vries.

Group A has completed its round, and Dennis, Da Costa, Rowland, and Vergne have all qualified for the Duels! #SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/20NdSIQ19e — Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

Group B: Wehrlein Matches Dennis, Setback for Evans

In Group B, reigning world champion Pascal Wehrlein and his competitor Mitch Evans took to the track. The "Kiwi," who had claimed victory at the Sao Paulo E-Prix two years prior, found himself halted on the circuit just three and a half minutes in—similar to what happened during the second practice session. It was suspected that his emergency brake might have been triggered, but even his team principal, James Barclay, was uncertain. The race officials paused the session with red flags.

? RED FLAG ? Mitch Evans from Jaguar Racing has come to a halt on the track, resulting in his elimination from the qualifying session at the Sao Paulo E-Prix. pic.twitter.com/9M8jwGQvri — Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

During the team radio communication, his race engineer instructed Evans to perform a "power cycle" to restart his vehicle. Although he managed to get moving again briefly, he soon experienced repeated stops due to a "Brake System Error 535." The Jaguar crept back to the pit at a snail's pace, marking a disastrous season opener for the team. After a pause of just over ten minutes, the session resumed with only seven minutes remaining.

The first impressive time was set by Wehrlein, comparable to the pace of Group A winner Dennis. Edo Mortara moved up to second place with a strong lap. Stoffel Vandoorne followed in third, while Dan Ticktum and Norman Nato were competing for fourth place. After time ran out, Max Günther unexpectedly improved to third place, where he stayed. Wehrlein topped his group ahead of Mortara. Nato also advanced to the duels in fourth place. The remaining positions were occupied by Vandoorne, Ticktum, Robin Frijns, Nico Müller, Taylor Barnard, Zane Maloney, and the unlucky Evans.

Overview: The Sao Paulo Formula E Qualifying Quarterfinals

Quarterfinal 1: Oliver Rowland vs. Antonio Felix da Costa

The first quarterfinal was anticipated to be a closely contested battle. Rowland had a strong start, initially clocking in almost two-tenths of a second faster than Felix da Costa. However, in the second sector, Felix da Costa began to close the gap. During this time, Rowland reported steering issues over the radio. Despite having to concede the third sector to Felix da Costa, Rowland managed to secure a place in the semifinals by a narrow margin of six hundredths of a second!

Quarter-Final 1 featured a tight race between Rowland and Da Costa, with only a 0.060-second difference separating them. Oliver Rowland advanced to the Semi-Finals. #SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/LERH73lE98 — Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

Quarter-Final 1 featured a tight race between Rowland and Da Costa, with only a 0.060-second difference separating them. Oliver Rowland advanced to the Semi-Finals. #SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/LERH73lE98

VF2: Jean-Eric Vergne versus Jake Dennis

In the second matchup, Dennis secured a solid victory. The British driver from Andretti outpaced the experienced Vergne in all three sectors, ultimately finishing more than half a second ahead. With this performance, the 2023 World Champion confidently advanced to the semifinals.

VF3: Max Günther vs. Edo Mortara

In the third quarter-final, Günther had a slightly stronger start. During the second part of the track, he was three-tenths of a second faster than Mortara, who had previously impressed during the group stage. Despite both competitors being evenly matched in Sector 3, Günther ultimately secured a clear victory with a lead of over three-tenths of a second.

VF4: Norman Nato vs. Pascal Wehrlein

In the final quarterfinal match-up, Norman Nato started strongly by clocking a faster sector time than Pascal Wehrlein. However, Wehrlein, the reigning world champion from Germany, dominated the second segment. In the final stretch, both racers were nearly evenly matched. Crossing the finish line, Wehrlein outpaced Nato by 1.22 seconds, securing the last spot in the semifinals. Fans could now look forward to an all-British and an all-German showdown in the next round.

Quarter-Final 4: Nato vs. Wehrlein

The current world champion, Pascal Wehrlein, has progressed to the Semi-Finals! ⚡️#SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/XG9y3nJycP

— Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

Semifinal Matchup

SF1: Oliver Rowland vs. Jake Dennis

In this showdown between the qualifying titans, a first in the Gen3 era, the favorite contenders for pole position faced off. Rowland kicked off with a noticeably superior first sector during the fast laps. However, Dennis claimed the second sector, setting up an exciting contest as anticipated. Despite Dennis closing the gap in Sector 3, it wasn't enough; he ended up a mere thousandth of a second slower than Rowland, resulting in his defeat. Rowland advances to the final!

In the first semi-final, the contest between Rowland and Dennis was incredibly close, with a mere 0.001 seconds difference between them! Oliver Rowland has advanced to the final round of the Duels. #SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/HFq2E5duIU — Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

Max Günther vs. Pascal Wehrlein: The Duel

Back in March, Max Günther and Pascal Wehrlein faced off during the qualifying rounds in São Paulo, where Wehrlein came out on top. This time around, the Porsche driver once again excelled, taking the lead in the first sector. Wehrlein extended his advantage over Günther by another tenth of a second in the second part of the track, ultimately increasing his lead by two more tenths. As a result, Wehrlein advanced confidently to the final against Rowland with nearly a half-second lead. Günther will begin the race from the second row in fourth position.

Semi-Final 2: Günther vs. Wehrlein. Pascal Wehrlein advances triumphantly to the Finals of the Duels! #SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/bWzfEqeEzI — Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

Final Showdown: Oliver Rowland vs. Pascal Wehrlein

These two had faced off once before, in the quarterfinals of the Misano E-Prix, where Wehrlein emerged victorious. However, this time, Rowland had a better start, gaining an early lead of almost two-tenths of a second over Wehrlein. In the second sector, the German driver made a comeback, leveling the playing field. In a dramatic turn of events, Wehrlein managed to overtake Rowland in the final stretch, winning by a mere 99 milliseconds! This victory secured him the pole position and the first three championship points for the reigning world champion. It marks the seventh pole position in Formula E for the 30-year-old.

The current world champion sets a standard. Check out the moment when @PWehrlein clinched the @JuliusBaer Pole Position in São Paulo! #SaoPauloEPrix pic.twitter.com/8nrYo8bkaw

— Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 7, 2024

The opening race of the 2024/25 Formula E World Championship is scheduled for early Saturday evening at 6 PM (CET). The German broadcaster DF1 will air the Sao Paulo E-Prix live on free television and via a livestream on df1.de. As usual, e-Formel.de will provide live updates and commentary on the race in Brazil through its Formula E live ticker, making it an ideal "second-screen" option for dedicated fans!

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Episode 348

Preview Sao Paulo: 90 Percent Chance of Rain

December 5, 2024 | Length: 24 minutes and 47 seconds

The extended break in the season has come to an end, and it's once again time for previews. Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz are examining the track in Sao Paulo on your behalf, talking about the front-runners in Brazil, as well as the television and streaming broadcasts. Additionally, they discuss the weather in Brazil for December and present another installment of the Grid-Dummies quiz. Enjoy listening!

Episode number

FE: Introduction for Newcomers

November 30, 2024 | Duration: 1 hour and 55 seconds

Just before the first race of the eleventh Formula E season, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz aim to address numerous fundamental questions about motorsport, and particularly Formula E, in their Beginners' Guide, which is specifically tailored for newcomers to the series. To assist with this, they have enlisted the help of Daniel Goggi, the Formula E commentator for ServusTV and DF1. Together, they not only answer many beginner questions but also engage in a broader discussion about Formula E and the perceptions of its fanbase. Enjoy listening!

Episode 346

Analysis of Madrid: 38 Truck Journeys

November 21, 2024 | Duration: 33 minutes and 7 seconds

In this episode, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz reflect on the pre-season test drives that took place in Madrid. While the lap times don't provide much concrete information, there are some intriguing insights just ahead of the season kickoff in Sao Paulo. The duo also discusses the inaugural test session exclusively for female drivers in Formula E. Additionally, new details emerge regarding pit stops with rapid charging, and there's a special appearance by the Formula E world champion in a car with a roof. Enjoy listening!

Episode 345 and a half

Formula E Preview for Jarama: Last-Minute Schedule Change

Date: November 4, 2024 | Duration: 5 minutes and 4 seconds

The title of our preview for the Valencia test drives has not aged well: Instead of sunny weather, Spain was hit by a severe storm that particularly affected the Valencia region, causing devastation on a massive scale. In response, Formula E quickly relocated the test sessions to Jarama, near Madrid, where they will take place from Tuesday to Friday. In this solo episode, Tobi Wirtz shares some new information about the drivers participating in the test drives. Enjoy listening!

Episode Number

Preview of Valencia: Journey to the Sunny South

October 30, 2024 | Duration: 28 minutes and 19 seconds

It's preview time once again! Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz look ahead to the test sessions in Valencia. They also discuss the potential return of a German driver and the women's test taking place at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. However, the hottest topic in the paddock is that two teams have breached the Formula E cost cap and will face penalties in Valencia. Additionally, there's a new episode of our popular Grid Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

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Formula E in São Paulo: An Overview of the Qualifying Groups

Report by Tim Neuhaus, December 7, 2024 · 12:30 PM

The excitement is back as Formula E kicks off Season 11 at full throttle. The action begins with the initial qualifying session scheduled for early Saturday afternoon at 13:40 CET. So far, both Stoffel Vandoorne and Pascal Wehrlein have claimed pole positions in Brazil. To reach the top spot again, they first need to navigate through the group stage. Our summary provides details on which drivers compete in each group.

In the time trial, the drivers initially compete in two separate groups. Typically, Formula E organizes these groups for the race based on the current world championship standings. However, since Sao Paulo marks the beginning of the eleventh Formula E season, teams are allowed to place one driver in Group A and another in Group B. Based on this rule, the qualifying groups for Sao Paulo on Saturday are determined as follows.

Drivers who hold odd-numbered positions in the championship standings will begin in Group A, while those on even-numbered positions will start in Group B. The aim for each driver is to secure a spot in the top four of their respective group, as this is the only way to advance to the knockout stage. In the knockout stage, pairs of drivers compete against each other in the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and finals, battling for pole position and the first three championship points.

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Podcasts

Episode 348

Preview for Sao Paulo: 90% Chance of Rain

Date: 12/05/2024 | Duration: 24 minutes and 47 seconds

The extended off-season has come to an end, and it's time for a preview once more. Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz are taking a closer look at the track in Sao Paulo for you, talking about the front-runners in Brazil as well as the TV and streaming broadcasts. They also discuss the December weather in Brazil and present another episode of the Grid Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

Episode Number

FE: A Guide for Beginners

November 30, 2024 | Duration: 1 hour, 55 seconds

Just before the start of the eleventh Formula E season, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz aim to address numerous fundamental questions about motorsport, particularly focusing on Formula E, in their Beginners' Guide tailored for newcomers to the series. To assist them, they have enlisted Daniel Goggi, the Formula E commentator for ServusTV and DF1. Together, they not only tackle a variety of beginner questions but also engage in a broader discussion about Formula E and share insights into what many fans think about the series. Enjoy listening!

Episode Number

Analysis of Madrid: 38 Truck Trips

Date: November 21, 2024 | Duration: 33 minutes and 7 seconds

In this episode, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz reflect on the pre-season test drives in Madrid. While the lap times don't reveal much, there are some intriguing insights just ahead of the season opener in Sao Paulo. The duo also discusses the inaugural test session exclusively for female drivers in Formula E. Additionally, there's new information about pit stops featuring fast charging and a special appearance by the Formula E World Champion in a car with a roof. Enjoy listening!

Episode 345 and a half

Formula E Preview for Jarama: Last-Minute Schedule Change

November 4, 2024 | Duration: 5 minutes and 4 seconds

The title of our preview for the Valencia test drives has not aged well. Instead of sunshine, Spain experienced severe storms, particularly affecting the Valencia region and causing widespread destruction. In response, Formula E quickly relocated the test drives to Jarama, near Madrid, where they will take place from Tuesday to Friday. In this solo episode, Tobi Wirtz also shares some new information about the drivers participating in the tests. Enjoy listening!

Episode 345

FE: Preview of Valencia: Journey to the Sunny South

October 30, 2024 | Duration: 28 minutes and 19 seconds

It's preview time once again! Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz look ahead to the upcoming test sessions in Valencia, while also discussing the potential return of a German driver and the women's test event set to occur at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. However, the biggest buzz in the paddock is about two teams that have breached the Formula E budget cap and will face penalties in Valencia. Additionally, there's a fresh episode of our popular Grid Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

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"Was in the Perfect Position!" – Oliver Rowland Discusses How Nissan Penalties Cost Him the Formula E Victory

By Tim Neuhaus, December 8, 2024, 12:38 PM

The Formula E race on Saturday in Sao Paulo turned into a massive disarray. There were numerous crashes, and many penalties were handed out, with Nissan accumulating the most. Every driver from both the Nissan factory team and McLaren, Nissan's customer team, received a drive-through penalty. The infraction was technical, related to "power overuse." This was particularly disappointing for Oliver Rowland, who had been a strong contender for victory for much of the race.

The term "power overuse" simply refers to the temporary drawing of excessive power from the battery. Nissan team principal Tommaso Volpe has now confirmed to The Race where the issue originated: "The problem was with the control systems during the start procedure. We will urgently review this next week to ensure that penalties are avoided in the future."

Rowland had control of the race

Rowland, who began the race from second position and demonstrated exceptional performance throughout the weekend, was the only Nissan driver not penalized at the start. This was likely due to his favorable starting position, which allowed him to avoid reaching the critical speed threshold before the first turn. The British driver took the lead at the start and maintained dominance over the race thereafter.

He was able to save his Attack Mode for a longer period than the other drivers in the leading pack. Rowland was confident of his victory, stating, "I was ideally placed to pull away and nearly finish the race with the second Attack Mode." However, issues arose during the first activation: With nearly four minutes of Attack Mode remaining, Jake Dennis's exit led to a red flag, causing Rowland to lose his advantage.

His chances of winning were completely destroyed with the restart. Once again, he had a strong start and reclaimed the lead. However, his start was almost too strong: "During the second start, I held the throttle longer and battled with Antonio (Felix da Costa) until the first corner, and I encountered the same issue as the other Nissans." Consequently, he was penalized for "power overuse" and dropped to the last position.

Penalties Turn into Advantage for McLaren

In the initial stage of the race, Taylor Barnard and Sam Bird both received and served their penalties. The two red flag periods gave them an energy advantage, allowing them to conserve their Attack Mode for longer. Ultimately, this strategy paid off as Barnard secured his first podium finish with a third-place result, and Bird finished just behind him in fourth. With a total of 27 points, McLaren now leads the team standings!

Addressing the issue is, of course, a top priority for McLaren. Team principal Ian James states, "These matters are incredibly complicated, and naturally, you want to extract the best possible performance, so there's a tendency to push things to the limit. However, we should avoid ending up in a situation like today." According to James, McLaren is committed to fully supporting Nissan in resolving the problem.

Setting aside the penalties, Nissan appears more robust than ever, and the overall mood is positive. James is confident: "If we can solve the problems, the package Nissan provides looks impressive!" We'll find out if it leads to victory in Mexico. The second race of the season is scheduled there for January 11, 2025.

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Episode 348

Forecast for Sao Paulo: 90 Percent Chance of Rain

December 5, 2024 | Length: 24 minutes and 47 seconds

The extended off-season has concluded, and it's preview time once more. Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz are here to examine the Sao Paulo track, talk about the top contenders in Brazil, and provide details on TV and streaming broadcasts. They also discuss the weather conditions in Brazil during December and present another episode of the Grid-Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

Episode 347

FE: A Starter's Handbook

November 30, 2024 | Duration: 1 hour, 55 seconds

Just ahead of the first race of the eleventh Formula E season, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz aim to address a variety of basic questions about motorsport, particularly focusing on Formula E, in their Beginners' Guide tailored specifically for newcomers to the series. To assist with this, they have enlisted Daniel Goggi, the Formula E commentator for ServusTV and DF1. Together, they not only tackle numerous beginner questions but also engage in a broader discussion about Formula E and share insights on what many fans think about the series. Enjoy listening!

Episode 346

Analysis of Madrid: 38 Truck Journeys

November 21, 2024 | Duration: 33 minutes and 7 seconds

In this episode, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz reflect on the pre-season test drives that took place in Madrid. Although the lap times don't hold much significance, there are several intriguing insights to consider just ahead of the season opener in Sao Paulo. The duo also discusses the inaugural test session exclusively for female drivers in Formula E. Additionally, there are updates about pit stops featuring fast charging, and the Formula E World Champion makes an appearance in a car with a roof. Enjoy listening!

Episode 345 and a Half

Formula E: Jarama Preview: Last-Minute Rescheduling

November 4, 2024 | Duration: 5 minutes and 4 seconds

The title of our preview for the Valencia test drives has not aged well: instead of sunshine, Spain faced severe storms that particularly affected the Valencia region, leading to massive devastation. In response, Formula E quickly relocated the test sessions to Jarama, near Madrid, where they will be held from Tuesday to Friday. In this solo episode, Tobi Wirtz also shares some new information about the drivers participating in the tests. Enjoy listening!

Episode 345

FE: Preview of Valencia: A Journey to the Sunny South

October 30, 2024 | Duration: 28 minutes and 19 seconds

It's preview time once again! Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz look ahead to the test drives in Valencia, while also discussing the potential return of a German driver and the women's test set to occur at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. The hottest topic in the paddock, however, is that two teams have breached the Formula E cost cap and will face penalties in Valencia. Additionally, there's a new episode of our popular Grid Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

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Video: The Key Moments from the Formula E Season Opener in Sao Paulo

By Timo Pape, December 8, 2024, 9:51 AM

The 2024/25 Formula E season kicked off with a bang! The Sao Paulo E-Prix on Saturday night was packed with excitement: numerous overtakes thanks to the new all-wheel drive, two restarts following red flags, a victory from the last starting position, and even a dramatic flip by the reigning world champion, who fortunately emerged unscathed. We've uploaded a German-language highlight video of this chaotic race in Brazil on our new YouTube channel.

Key Moments of the 2024 Sao Paulo E-Prix

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Podcast Shows

Episode 348

Forecast for Sao Paulo: 90 Percent Chance of Rain

December 5, 2024 | Duration: 00:24:47

The extended off-season has come to an end, and it's preview time once more. Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz take a look at the track in São Paulo for you, talk about the top contenders in Brazil, and discuss TV and streaming broadcasts. They also cover what the weather is like in Brazil in December and present another episode of the Grid-Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

Episode 347

Title: Introduction to FE for Novices

Date: November 30, 2024 | Length: 1 hour and 55 seconds

Just before the start of the eleventh Formula E season, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz aim to address numerous fundamental questions about motorsport, particularly Formula E, in their Beginners' Guide designed specifically for newcomers to the series. To achieve this, they have enlisted the help of Daniel Goggi, the Formula E commentator for ServusTV and DF1. Together, they not only tackle many beginner questions but also engage in a broader discussion about Formula E and share thoughts on what many fans think about the series. Enjoy listening!

Episode 346

Analysis of Madrid: 38 Truck Trips

November 21, 2024 | Duration: 33 minutes and 7 seconds

In this episode, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz reflect on the pre-season test drives in Madrid. Although the lap times don't reveal much, there are some intriguing insights just before the season kicks off in Sao Paulo. The duo also discusses the first Formula E test session exclusively for female drivers. Additionally, they provide updates on the fast-charging pit stops and feature a guest appearance by the Formula E world champion in a car with a roof. Enjoy listening!

Chapter 345.5

Formula E: Jarama Preview – Last-Minute Changes

November 4, 2024 | Duration: 5 minutes and 4 seconds

The title of our preview for the Valencia test drives has not aged well: Instead of sunny weather, Spain experienced a severe storm, significantly impacting the Valencia region and causing massive destruction. In response, Formula E quickly relocated the test drives to Jarama, near Madrid, where they will take place from Tuesday to Friday. In this solo episode, Tobi Wirtz shares some new information about the drivers participating in the test drives. Enjoy listening!

Episode 345

FE: Preview Valencia: Journey to the Sunny South

October 30, 2024 | Length: 28 minutes and 19 seconds

It's preview time once again! Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz give us a look ahead at the upcoming test drives in Valencia. They also discuss the potential return of a German driver and an upcoming women's test set to take place at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. The biggest buzz in the paddock, however, is about two teams that have violated the Formula E cost cap and will face penalties in Valencia. Additionally, there's a new episode of our popular Grid Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

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"Never imagined dynamics would change like this" – Is Formula E's new all-wheel-drive attack mode too intense?

By Timo Pape, December 8, 2024, 4:38 PM

Mitch Evans admitted, "It opened our eyes to how far we could advance," after he clinched victory at the season opener in Sao Paulo, starting from the very last position on the grid—a feat never before seen in Formula E! A key factor in his triumph was the clever use of Attack Mode, which has become a game-changer due to the introduction of new all-wheel-drive technology. Has Formula E made a strategic misstep?

Over the last two years, the Attack Mode has almost become irrelevant. Drivers and teams often referred to it as an "annoying obligation" because the Gen3 car was unable to translate the additional 50 kW power into real performance on the track. As a result, the gap between the race mode at 300 kW and the Attack Mode at 350 kW was barely noticeable.

The Formula E series has upgraded its technology with the introduction of the new Gen3-Evo car. With the addition of all-wheel drive in Attack Mode and softer Hankook tires that provide better grip, the distinction in performance is once more evident—and significantly so! "Even if you're a few seconds behind, you can make up for it in just three or four turns. That's how substantial the speed advantage is!" explains Antonio Felix da Costa.

The driver of the Porsche, who finished second in the Sao Paulo E-Prix, shared his viewpoint: "We consistently remained in the top four, but when the first Attack Mode phase started, I think I dropped out of the top ten because others in Attack Mode simply overtook me. I need to analyze this in more detail now."

Evans: "No Previous Experience with Such a Contrast"

Even race winner Evans acknowledges: "None of us had any prior experience with such a contrast in the race. We first had to learn how to handle this new Attack Mode. However, the team guided me well through it. It was an eye-opener for us, seeing how far we could advance with it."

The debut of the all-wheel drive GEN3 Evo in ATTACK MODE was a thrilling success! Nick made an incredible move from 8th place to the lead in under two laps. What an impressive performance! #SãoPauloEPrix ?? pic.twitter.com/YQuAQHLoZv — Jaguar TCS Racing (@JaguarRacing) December 8, 2024

Even though Porsche had prepared for this exact scenario, Felix da Costa admits, "We had to do a lot of improvising and adapting." Reflecting on his first race with all-wheel drive, he notes, "You have to be smart about how you use it and make sure you don’t get stuck behind someone you aren’t directly competing against. Patience is key: the moment will come when you can activate it yourself."

Hui: "Crucial in Every Race This Season"

Dan Ticktum acknowledges: "With the all-wheel drive, the Attack Mode has become extremely powerful." Alex Hui, his team principal at Cupra Kiro, elaborates: "The new all-wheel drive in Formula E has completely transformed how the Attack Mode is used."

Hui is confident that the introduction of Hankook's new softer tires over the weekend has added an extra strategic layer, which will be crucial in every race this season.

Opinion by Timo Pape: Better to be on the offensive than to let others pass

"I anticipated that the dynamics of the race would shift, but I never imagined they would change to such an extent," says Felix da Costa. He is not alone in this sentiment. In recent months, there has been much discussion about the new Pit-Boost and the potential impact of fast-charging pit stops on the races. However, few have talked about the Attack-Mode, and certainly not with any concern.

Following the Sao Paulo E-Prix, there is a growing concern about whether the new Attack Mode might be overly powerful. Indeed, it became even more challenging for fans to discern which drivers were genuinely vying for victory. This issue of clarity had already been a significant criticism during the initial two years of the Gen3 series, often referred to in discussions about the "slipstream battles." Interestingly, the slipstream effect did not play a role on Saturday, despite the Sao Paulo circuit, with its long straights, being an ideal setting for it.

The nature of the track made it relatively easy for drivers in Attack Mode to execute overtakes. However, upcoming races will feature much tighter circuits, such as the next event in Mexico, where overtaking might prove challenging even with all-wheel drive. In those instances, the drivers' overtaking skills could become even more crucial.

It's also true that the Attack Mode now truly lives up to its name. It's meant for offensive maneuvers and actually reminded me of the iconic star in Mario Kart, especially since the car's LEDs now flash pink and light blue when activated. Perhaps reducing the contrast a bit might provide clearer visibility. However, these subtle details are difficult to manage when considering the long-term development of tires.

A potential short-term solution might involve boosting performance in race mode to reduce the gap compared to all-wheel drive systems, though this could lead to other consequences. However, is this something anyone wants? Let's first observe how significant the difference is on other tracks. I'm trying to view the situation like pit stops in Formula 1, where shifts in the lineup also occur. Yet, dedicated fans can still keep track of who is genuinely competing for the win.

In Formula E, each driver is allowed two activations during a much shorter race. Is it possible to manage this potential chaos to some extent? One option might be to implement fixed windows for activating the Attack Mode, which would require all drivers to activate within those periods. It is also expected that teams will start saving their second Attack Mode activation until the end of the race, as demonstrated by Jaguar and McLaren on Saturday. However, if all drivers have the same amount of power again, their ability to launch attacks would be limited.

The revamped Attack Mode has introduced a new layer of strategy to Formula E that many have underestimated. It has led to numerous overtaking maneuvers, which I personally preferred over the "waving by" style of the past two seasons, as these moves originated from the attacker. In that sense, I'm feeling optimistic and hopeful that the chaos in upcoming races will be somewhat reduced. The only remaining question is how the powerful Attack Mode will work in conjunction with the Pit-Boost, which will be implemented starting with the Jeddah E-Prix…

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Luca · December 8, 2024

The attack mode is finally useful again and not just an obligation.

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Audio Shows

Episode 348

Forecast for Sao Paulo: 90 Percent Chance of Rain

December 5, 2024 | Duration: 24 minutes and 47 seconds

The extended off-season has come to an end, and it's preview time once more. Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz take a closer look at the track in Sao Paulo for you, talk about the top contenders in Brazil, and cover TV and streaming broadcasts. They also discuss the December weather in Brazil and present another installment of the Grid-Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

Episode Number

Title: Introduction to FE for Newcomers

Date: November 30, 2024 | Duration: 1 hour and 55 seconds

Just before the opening race of the eleventh Formula E season, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz aim to address numerous basic questions about motorsport, particularly focusing on Formula E, in their Beginners' Guide designed especially for newcomers to the sport. To assist them, they've brought in Daniel Goggi, the Formula E commentator for ServusTV and DF1. Together, they answer various questions for beginners and also engage in a broader discussion about Formula E and what many fans think about the series. Enjoy listening!

Episode 346

Analysis of Madrid: 38 Truck Journeys

November 21, 2024 | Duration: 33 minutes and 7 seconds

In this episode, Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz reflect on the pre-season testing in Madrid. Although lap times don't hold much significance, there are some intriguing insights just before the season kicks off in Sao Paulo. The duo also discusses the inaugural test session exclusively for female drivers in Formula E. Additionally, they share updates on the fast-charging pit stops and mention an appearance by the Formula E world champion in a car with a roof. Enjoy listening!

Episode 345 and a half

Formula E: Jarama Preview – Last-Minute Rescheduling

November 4, 2024 | Duration: 5 minutes, 4 seconds

The title of our preview for the Valencia test drives has not aged well: instead of sunshine, an extreme storm hit Spain, severely affecting the Valencia region and causing widespread devastation. In response, Formula E quickly relocated the test sessions to Jarama, near Madrid, where they are now scheduled from Tuesday to Friday. Additionally, Tobi Wirtz shares some new information about the drivers participating in these tests in this solo episode. Enjoy listening!

Episode Number

FE: Preview of Valencia: A Journey to the Sunny South

October 30, 2024 | Duration: 28 minutes and 19 seconds

It's preview time once again! Luca Storms and Tobi Wirtz are looking ahead to the test runs in Valencia. They also discuss the potential return of a German driver and the women's test scheduled to take place at Circuit Ricardo Tormo. However, the hottest topic in the paddock is that two teams have breached the Formula E cost cap and will face penalties in Valencia. Additionally, there's a new episode of our popular Grid Dummies Quiz. Enjoy listening!

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