Frankfurt 2013: Formula E Spark SRT_01E
It's finally here - the Formula E car that we've all been waiting to see. Unveiled at an event at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the Spark SRT_01E is the car that all 10 Formula E teams will use in the 2014/2015 season, when the first championship kicks off towards the end of next year.
The Spark SRT_01E has been built by Spark Racing Technology, headed by Frederic Vasseur, who also owns the ART Grand Prix, the GP2 team for which drivers like Pastor Maldonado and James Calado drive for. That aside, let's take a quick look at what the car is all about.
The SRT_01E's chassis has been built by Dallara and has been, apparently, aerodynamically designed to aid overtaking. The chassis is made from carbon fibre and aluminium and will comply to 2014 FIA crash test standards. Over to the powerplant and transmission, then. The electronic motor, transmission and electronics are all made by McLaren Electronics Systems. While Williams is designing and supplying the battery units. Overall integration of the car is being handled by Renault.
"I congratulate all partners involved in the production of the fully-electric SRT_01E car it is a fantastic achievement," said FIA President Jean Todt. "The innovative technology deployed follows the best environmental practices, highlighting the potential of the Formula E Championship to spark a revolution in the development of new electromobility systems, not just for motorsport but also for every day use. This new championship builds on the FIA's traditional role as a leading promoter of innovation, technology and performance in the automotive sector."
While Alejandro Agag, CEO of Formula E Holdings declared, "With Formula E being an open championship, the series gives manufacturers the opportunity to showcase their electrical energy innovations and we're delighted to have Spark Racing Technology as the first, and for them to produce our new fully-electric Formula E car."
To read more about Formula E as a championship, follow the link to our interview with Alejandro Agag on all-electric Formula E racing series headed to India.:
