Formula E presents new Gen4 race car with up to 600 kW

Although the vehicle has been significantly developed in all areas, Formula E is maintaining its familiar technical concept. The car’s chassis, most of the suspension components, and the battery are standardised across all manufacturers and teams. Only the software and the electric powertrain – including the rear suspension system linked to the motor – can be freely developed.

Power output rises notably from the current 300 kW, or 350 kW in Attack Mode. In race trim, the new car delivers up to 450 kW, with a temporary peak of 600 kW in Attack Mode. Since the previous season, the Gen3 Evo’s front motor has only been permitted for use at the start or in Attack Mode to provide temporary all-wheel drive. In contrast, the fourth-generation Formula E car can use both electric motors “in every phase of the race.” With the increase in power also comes a rise in regenerative capability, allowing energy recovery of up to 700 kW.

The extra power in an electric race car is only meaningful if sufficient energy is available to sustain it over longer periods. As a result, the available battery capacity during a race has been increased by 43 per cent to 55 kWh. Formula E says this will give teams more “race energy capacity,” leading to “bolder race strategies.”

The Gen4 is also designed to be “motorsport’s most sustainable race car.” Its construction uses 100 per cent recyclable materials, with at least 20 per cent recycled content. In terms of appearance, the new model looks more like a traditional single-seater again, moving away from the sharply angular design of the Gen3. The front and rear wings are larger to improve aerodynamic performance and traction, helping the higher power output reach the track efficiently. As these are standardised components, teams cannot develop their own designs. Formula E intends this to prevent excessive spending in wind tunnel testing for minimal aerodynamic gains.

Overall, the new car – jointly tested by Formula E and the FIA – is expected to be significantly faster than the current Gen3 Evo model. Formula E has not yet released official figures, as the prototype was tested with a pre-production powertrain. Manufacturers are expected to extract even more performance from their own systems. In an interview earlier this year, Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds said qualifying laps could be around five seconds faster than with the current cars, putting Gen4 performance on par with Formula 2.

After the initial test phase, manufacturers involved in Formula E – Porsche, Nissan, Stellantis, Jaguar and Lola Cars – will receive their first Gen4 chassis to evaluate and integrate their own powertrains before joint testing begins in autumn 2026.

“Co-developed with the FIA, it stands as the most advanced, demanding, and sustainable machine we’ve ever built, redefining what’s possible in performance and environmental responsibility,” said Dodds. “With GEN4, Formula E strengthens its position as the world’s most forward-thinking sport and a true racing pioneer.”

fiaformulae.com, fiaformulae.com (fact sheet)

This article was first published by Sebastian Schaal for electrive’s German edition.