Formula E is halfway through its Gen3 car cycle and plans are underway for the upcoming Gen4 race car. However, the series isn’t waiting until the all-new electric car is ready to hit the track to introduce some significant improvements to the current model. Ahead of this weekend’s Monaco E-Prix, Formula E unveiled the so-called Gen3 Evo, the fastest-accelerating FIA single-seater in the world by current standards. The series also introduces bodywork changes aimed at improving aerodynamics and durability, particularly the nose, as well as all-wheel drive (AWD) for the first time on a Formula E car.
According to Formula E, the Gen3 Evo is capable of a full second faster than the Gen3 version, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 1.82 seconds (0 to 100 km/h in 1.86 seconds). This time was stated to be 30 percent faster than a 2024 Formula 1 car and 36 percent faster than the Gen3 EV currently used in races. These numbers are not theoretical either: the series has already met the benchmarks at the track in Misano, Italy.
“It’s not simulated, it’s real,” Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds told Engadget. “The FIA’s timing was really designed for this speed.” Dodds added that there had been some “slight changes” in some areas, but the Gen3 Evo should still reach 60 mph in under two seconds if it coming to the track for racing next year.
A key aspect of this unlocked acceleration is the first use of all-wheel drive in a Formula E car. The series introduced dual powertrains for the first time with Gen3, but until now the front powertrain was only used for battery regeneration. Four-wheel drive is only used during the later qualifying rounds (head-to-head duels), at the start of the race and if a driver has activated attack mode during the race. In addition to increased acceleration, the driver should have better control and more grip with active all-wheel drive. It also completely changes the team strategy and could lead to even more exciting racing.
“One of the occasional criticisms I hear is that the difference in attack mode isn’t big enough,” Dodds said. “I think with all-wheel drive that will make a difference.” He also noted that when 22 cars, all of which can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than two seconds, head into turn one, “that becomes one a risky and exciting start to a race.”
One frustration of the Gen3 that Formula E is addressing with the Gen3 Evo is the fragility of the front wing. As part of a major bodywork overhaul that includes new sidepods, a rear wing and more, the new car features a redesigned, slightly more pointed nose and a reinforced front wing. The Gen3 car is prone to damage to the front wing, which often gets caught under the car, becoming dangerous for a driver trying to return to the pitlane. According to Formula E, the body changes are not only “stronger” and “more robust” but also improve aerodynamics, which could lead to more wheel-to-wheel battles on the track.
Another important change concerns the tires. Formula E is still working with Hankook on the all-weather compound used for its races, but the updated version offers 5 to 10 percent more grip compared to the current specification. Dodds explained that this increase in traction is essential because the Gen3 Evo uses the front drivetrain for all-wheel drive.
“If the tires don’t provide more grip, it’s quite difficult to control that,” he said.
Overall, according to Formula E, the Gen3 Evo’s performance improvements mean a two-second drop in qualifying lap times on Monaco’s narrow, winding street circuit. Since the series dictates the qualifying time in this estimate, this means that four-wheel drive and a higher power mode would have to be active to achieve this time. But it also means Formula E realizes the full potential of what Gen3 has been capable of since its debut last season.
In fact, most of the Gen3 car is still intact. This includes an all-electric racing car that is incredibly efficient and converts 90 percent of its energy into mechanical power. By using 600 kW regenerative braking, the cars generate almost 50 percent of the energy they need to complete a race on the track. Like its predecessor, the Gen3 Evo continues to reach a top speed of 200 miles per hour. And as before, teams will make performance improvements to the cars through software changes to gain an advantage on track.
According to Formula E, some driver testing of the Gen3 Evo has already been carried out behind closed doors and the feedback has been very positive. Dodds explained that Tag Heuer Porsche’s Pascal Wehrlein and DS Penske’s Jean-Éric Vergne both drove the car in test sessions and received rave reviews. Vergne, one of the most outspoken drivers on the grid, made a point of emphasizing how much better he drives than the current car.
“The sooner we can come [Gen3 Evo] “It’s even better for him in Season 11,” Dodds explained. “It’s nice to get this feedback because happy drivers often lead to happy races.”