Porsche got its Formula E project off to a rolling start as Neel Jani successfully completed a number of laps at Weissach…
PORSCHE TESTS FORMULA E CAR
Porsche factory driver Neel Jani completed the first powered test of Porsche’s forthcoming Formula E racer, due to enter competition in the sport’s sixth season (2019/20). The former endurance racer and A1 GP competitor drove the new Formula E car at Porsche’s test track at Weissach. Porsche said that the first test drive with the ‘newly developed fully electric Porsche powertrain’ passed without incident.
The important milestone in Porsche’s re-entry into single seater racing will have provided valuable insight into the new car’s characteristics which will shape Porsche’s development of it over the coming months.
Jani, who has already competed in Formula E, commented: “I am very proud to have been behind the wheel the first time our Formula E racing car was driven. Being allowed to drive the roll-out is not only a great honour, it is also very exciting. We’re breaking new ground. It was a fantastic feeling for me. Everyone in the team feels it: The project is really gaining momentum now. We didn’t push it to the limit during the roll-out, but the powertrain and the car made a very good first impression overall. I can’t wait to get back to testing.”
Vice President Porsche Motorsport, Fritz Enzinger, added: “The newly developed Porsche powertrain for Formula E completed its baptism of fire. It is an important day for everyone involved in this project. “We still have a lot of work to do on the road to our works entry in Formula E, but an important initial step has been taken. Now we will be fully focused as we continue to work on familiarising ourselves with the particular challenges of Formula E.” Porsche joins a number of automotive manufacturers looking to make a splash in Formula E.
The series provides entrants with a vehicle and battery unit, powertrain components are developed by competitors. When finalised Porsche’s powertrain will produce in the region of 272hp (the maximum permitted) while its car will weigh approximately 900kg (including the driver), 0-62mph will be achieved in 2.8 seconds. Porsche’s development timetable aims to crash test its new offering sometime in June, before final homologation takes place in August ahead of the first race of Season Six in December.
