Electric racing is rapidly transforming the world of motorsport. From the pioneering efforts of Formula E in circuit racing to the emergence of electric Rallycross (eRX), the adoption of electric powertrains is driving innovation and creating new forms of competition. This article examines the evolution of electric racing, its key milestones, technological advancements, and future prospects.

Formula E: Pioneering Electric Circuit Racing

Formula E, officially the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, has been the driving force behind the growth of electric racing. Conceived in 2011 by Jean Todt and Alejandro Agag, the series held its inaugural race in Beijing in 2014. Formula E’s mission has been to showcase the capabilities of electric vehicles in a competitive and engaging format. By racing primarily on temporary street circuits in major cities worldwide, Formula E brings the excitement of motorsport to urban audiences while demonstrating the practicality and performance of electric cars. The series achieved FIA World Championship status in 2020, solidifying its position as the premier electric single-seater racing championship. More details are available on the Formula E website.

Technological Advancements in Formula E

Formula E’s technological evolution has been rapid and significant. The initial seasons featured identical Spark-Renault SRT 01E cars, with limited battery capacity requiring mid-race car swaps. Season 5 introduced the Gen2 car, doubling energy storage and eliminating the need for car swaps, resulting in more dynamic races. The Gen3 and Gen3 Evo represent further leaps. The Gen3 Evo, detailed in Sports Business Journal, achieves 0-60 mph in just 1.82 seconds, outperforming even Formula 1 cars. It also introduces all-wheel drive (AWD) to Formula E. Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds states that the Gen3 Evo aims to dispel any doubts about electric vehicle performance. The Electric Motor News highlights that the Gen3 Evo offers a comprehensive performance upgrade.

Race Formats and Fan Engagement

Formula E has continuously innovated its race formats and fan engagement. Early seasons featured set lap distances, transitioning to timed races. ‘Fanboost,’ active for the first eight seasons, allowed fans to vote for drivers to receive a temporary power boost. ‘Attack Mode,’ introduced in Season 5, provides drivers with strategic power boosts activated by driving through designated zones, adding tactical depth. These features, combined with qualifying sessions involving group stages and head-to-head ‘duels,’ ensure close competition and spectator excitement.

eRX: The Electrification of Rallycross

While Formula E has focused on circuit racing, electric Rallycross (eRX) is rapidly emerging. Rallycross, with its short, intense races on mixed surfaces (asphalt and gravel), is well-suited to the instant torque and power delivery of electric motors. The FIA World Rallycross Championship (World RX) has spearheaded this transition. Complete Car reports on World RX’s move towards electric power.

World RX: The Battle of Technologies

The 2024 World RX season introduced a unique ‘Battle of Technologies’ format, allowing electric vehicles (EVs) and internal combustion engine (ICE) cars to compete directly. This format, as reported by CAR Magazine, offers a direct comparison of the two powertrain types. The regulations are designed to create a level playing field. While specific details can vary, the general approach involves balancing the inherent advantages of each technology. EVs typically have superior acceleration and torque, while ICE cars may have a weight advantage and, traditionally, longer range (though this is less relevant in the short-race format of rallycross). Adjustments, such as power restrictions or weight penalties, may be used to ensure close competition.

Technological Advancements and Safety in eRX

The RX1e cars, featuring a Kreisel drivetrain with 680 horsepower and 880 Nm of torque, have demonstrated performance comparable to, and sometimes exceeding, that of traditional rallycross cars. This highlights the potential of electric powertrains in this demanding motorsport.

Addressing Safety Concerns

The transition to electric rallycross has faced challenges. A significant battery fire during the 2023 season highlighted the safety risks associated with high-performance electric vehicle racing. In response, the FIA and World RX have implemented enhanced safety measures. These include stricter battery management protocols, improved fire suppression systems, and rigorous safety inspections. The focus is on preventing thermal runaway in batteries and ensuring rapid response in case of incidents. Continuous monitoring of battery health and temperature is also crucial.

The ŠKODA RE-X1 Kreisel Project

Projects like the ŠKODA RE-X1 Kreisel illustrate how established rally teams and manufacturers are embracing electric technology. This project demonstrates the adaptation of existing rally car platforms to accommodate electric powertrains, showcasing the potential for electric vehicles in rally and rallycross. These early developments, as described on v2charge.com, laid the groundwork for electric racing.

FIA RX2e: A Foundation for Electric Rallycross

The FIA RX2e Championship, established in 2021, served as a crucial proving ground for electric rallycross. This all-electric support series to World RX, developed with QEV Technologies, allowed for testing and refinement of the technology under competitive conditions. The RX2e car, with 335 horsepower and 510 Nm of torque, demonstrated reliability and competitiveness, paving the way for the full electrification of the World RX class. More details about RX2e are available on the QEV site.

Sustainability in Electric Racing

Electric racing is not only about performance but also about promoting sustainability. Formula E has maintained a strong environmental focus, becoming the first sport with a net-zero carbon footprint in 2020. The series acts as a testbed for technologies that can be transferred to road-going electric vehicles, accelerating the transition to sustainable transportation. Sustainability is also a priority in rallycross, with teams like Hansen Motorsport demonstrating that motorsport and environmental responsibility can coexist.

The Future of Electric Racing

The future of electric racing is promising. Advancements in battery technology, powertrains, and charging infrastructure will continue to enhance performance. Formula E’s planned introduction of ultra-fast charging (600 kW in 30 seconds) exemplifies future innovations. In rallycross, the ‘Battle of Technologies’ in World RX will continue to drive development. The emergence of more all-electric rallycross series and events is likely, with eRX poised to become a major force in motorsport. New Scientist reports that all-electric rallycross is at the forefront of this transition. Challenges remain, including further improving battery safety and energy density, and managing the costs associated with developing cutting-edge electric racing technology. However, the momentum is clearly towards greater electrification, with electric racing playing a key role in shaping the future of motorsport and influencing the broader automotive industry.