Formula E is at the forefront of mobility innovations. The electric car racing series, with its cutting-edge technology, is not only changing the way we think about racing but also paving the way for a cleaner, greener city of the future. This article will explain what Formula E is and how it's shaping the mobility space in various aspects.

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What is Formula E?

Formula E is an all-electric racing series that has been around since 2014 and is the first of its kind. Formula E cars are designed to be environmentally friendly and efficient while still offering a high level of performance. The races take place on temporary street circuits located in major cities around the world, making it accessible for fans to watch in person.

Formula E vs. Formula 1

Formula E and Formula 1 are two very different forms of motorsport. The main difference between the two is that Formula E cars are all-electric, while Formula 1 cars use hybrid engines. Formula 1 cars are more powerful and can go faster (up to 360 km/h.) The other major differences include the fact that Formula E races take place on temporary street circuits, while Formula 1 races usually occur on permanent race tracks.

Another thing that makes Formula E unique is its Attack Mode. Formula E's Attack Mode is an innovative feature that adds a new level of excitement and strategy to the sport. It's designed to allow drivers to power up their cars with extra energy from the race track during certain periods of the race. It differs from Drag Reduction System (DRS) in Formula 1. Both of them give racers extra speed over a period of time. But Attack Mode works by boosting power, while DRS works by decreasing wind resistance.

Formula E cars: fostering mobility innovations in the city of the future

Electrification

Firstly, Formula E is contributing to the development of electric vehicle technology. With each season, the cars are becoming more efficient and faster thanks to new advancements in battery and motor technology.

The latest Formula E Gen 3 cars are expected to have even more powerful batteries, with a range of up to 350 km on a single charge. It's also lighter in weight compared to Gen 2, which helps them go faster. Besides, Formula E Gen 3 is equipped with an innovative Powerful Regen Braking System. It converts kinetic energy into electric energy to repower the batteries and stop the car with its electric motors. This is an important breakthrough as Formula E Gen 3 cars will not need a rear mechanical brake to be able to stop. It's also a significant step forward in the mass adoption of electric vehicles for everyday use.

Urban mobility

Formula E is also breaking down barriers in urban mobility. Unlike traditional car racing, the sport takes place on city streets, promoting electric vehicle adoption and showcasing the benefits of sustainable transportation in the city of the future. Not only does this bring excitement and entertainment to city centers, but it also raises awareness about electric cars and their potential to reduce air pollution and traffic congestion.

In 2017, Formula E and the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) launched the Smart Cities Initiative. This partnership aims to promote sustainable mobility in urban areas around the world. Formula E is working closely with FIA to leverage its expertise in electric vehicle technology and promote sustainable mobility in smart cities worldwide.

Moreover, Formula E is tackling the challenges of urban transportation with another solution - micro-mobility. It has teamed up with retailer Zinc Sports to launch a range of micro-mobility vehicles, such as e-scooters, e-bikes, and kick scooters. It hopes that micro-mobility vehicles could play a role in sustainable urban transport in the future.

There're more companies in the industry trying to build micro-mobility products with racing car technologies. Vok Bikes is one such company. Founded by a group of university students from a formula student team, the startup produces cargo bikes for heavy-duty uses. It reimagines the city of the future with a solution for logistics and delivery in an urban setting where transportation can be a challenge. Check out more innovative mobility startups and their solutions in this video:

Sustainability

The sport's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its adoption of a "circular economy" approach. All the materials used in the construction of Formula E cars are recycled or reused, and the series' logistics are designed to minimize environmental impact. The series has a commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, with events powered by renewable energy sources and a target to become "carbon-neutral" by 2030.

In addition, Formula E cars are powered by fully renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power. The series has also initiated the "Race Against Climate Change" campaign, which aims to inspire people to take action against climate change and to promote a cleaner world.

Digitization

Another way Formula E is innovating mobility is through its use of cutting-edge digital technology. Fans can engage with the sport via social media channels and the Formula E app, which offers a range of interactive features such as live and on-demand race streaming, statistics, and behind-the-scenes content. This digitalization enables the sport to reach a wider audience and demonstrate the potential for mobility innovations.

Just like how it's changing the experience of Formula E fans, digitization is shaping the city of the future by creating more efficient, connected transport systems. One example is MOBIQU, a startup that designs and develops next-generation modular box systems for the pharma, medical, food, and retail industries. It offers temperature-controlled and IoT-enabled packaging solutions with sensors that preserve, track, and monitor deliveries. This technology helps cold chain and last-mile delivery become fully digital, sustainable, and efficient.

To learn more about how Plug and Play is helping startups and corporates revolutionize themobility industry, connect with us today.

In January, Formula E kicked off its ninth season, and the competition will run until July this year. Season nine is the first time Formula E Gen 3 cars are used, which, according to GQ, are the "world's first net zero carbon race cars." Formula E is more than a racing championship. It contributes to the development of electrification, breaking down barriers in urban mobility, and adopting environmentally sustainable practices. These innovations demonstrate the potential for creativity in mobility in the city of the future.