Formula E, the pioneering electric vehicle racing series, has announced its most ambitious advancement to date with the unveiling of the Gen4 race car. This new model promises to revolutionize electric motorsport with its extraordinary performance capabilities, including a blistering 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 1.8 seconds—faster off the line than a Formula 1 car. Scheduled to make its competitive debut in the 2026-27 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, the Gen4 car represents a significant milestone in the evolution of electric racing technology.
When Formula E first launched in 2014, it was viewed largely as a curiosity within the motorsport community. The inaugural season featured cars that were efficient but relatively slow compared to traditional racing vehicles, and the lack of engine noise—a hallmark of motorsports—left many fans underwhelmed. However, over the past decade, Formula E has undergone a remarkable transformation. It has evolved from a niche spectacle into a high-stakes, manufacturer-backed championship that serves as a cutting-edge platform for developing and showcasing electric vehicle technology.
The introduction of the Gen4 car could mark a turning point for Formula E, potentially elevating the sport out of the shadow of Formula 1 and into the limelight as a premier global racing series. The car is not only faster but also packs an array of technological innovations that push the boundaries of what electric racing cars can achieve.
One of the most striking physical differences of the Gen4 car compared to its predecessor, the Gen3 Evo, is its size. The new model is significantly larger and features two distinct aerodynamic configurations along with more aggressive bodywork styling. These design changes are not merely aesthetic; they are central to the car’s enhanced performance and versatility on the track.
Power-wise, the Gen4 is the most advanced car Formula E has produced. It boasts a peak power output of 600 kW, equivalent to over 815 horsepower, and delivers active all-wheel drive throughout the race. This powertrain setup enables the car to harness maximum traction and acceleration in various racing conditions. The car’s aerodynamics are equally sophisticated, offering two modes: a high-downforce setting optimized for qualifying laps to maximize grip and speed, and a low-drag configuration tailored for race conditions, including the so-called "attack mode" that allows drivers to unleash full power for overtaking maneuvers.
Regenerative braking technology has also been significantly enhanced in the Gen4 car. The system can now recover energy at a peak rate of 700 kW, allowing the vehicle to recapture around 40% of its race power from braking alone. This remarkable efficiency means that drivers can rely heavily on energy recuperation during races, opening up new strategic possibilities. Furthermore, the car’s energy storage capacity has been increased to 55 kWh, enabling more aggressive and flexible race strategies that can influence the outcome of tightly contested events.
Despite some visual similarities to Formula 1 cars, the Gen4 vehicle embodies many unique features that distinguish it as a leading-edge electric racer. Beyond raw performance, sustainability has been a central focus in its design and construction. The car is built entirely from recyclable materials and incorporates at least 20% recycled content throughout its structure. This commitment to sustainability reflects the broader mission of Formula E to promote zero-emission racing while pushing technological boundaries.
Jeff Dodds, CEO of Formula E, emphasized that the Gen4 car is much more than a racing machine. He described it as the culmination of over a decade of progress, innovation, and ambition in electric racing. Dodds lauded the car as the most demanding and sustainable vehicle the series has ever produced, underscoring the dual goals of performance and environmental responsibility.
Marek Nawarecki, senior circuit sport director at the FIA—the governing body for motorsport—echoed this sentiment, noting that the Gen4 car "raises the bar" for electric racing. He highlighted how the new platform provides manufacturers with unprecedented opportunities to develop and showcase technologies that have direct relevance to road cars, bridging the gap between racing innovation and consumer electric vehicle advancements.
As the Gen4 car enters the testing phase with participating teams, anticipation is building. Prominent manufacturers such as Porsche, Nissan, Stellantis, Jaguar, and Lola Cars are actively involved in refining the platform. Each team will implement its own energy management strategies and fine-tune the car’s performance to gain a competitive edge. Additionally, while the base design of the Gen4 car is consistent, individual teams