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Formula E Spark-Renault SRT_01E Electric Racer Unveiled At Frankfurt
Formula E is an upcoming single seater street race event that is scheduled to make its debut in September of 2014. What sets Formula E apart from other single seater motorsports events is that the race cars will be all electric. The veils were taken off the very first Formula E electric race car at the Frankfurt Auto Show.
The Formula E electric racer unveiled yesterday belongs to the team Spark-Renault and bares the name ‘SRT_01E'. The world's first electric racer was revealed by FIA President Jean Todt and Alejandro Agag, CEO of Formula E Holdings.
The Spark-Renault SRT_01E fully-electric single-seater was built by Spark Racing Technology, with the help of several other technology partners.
To start with, the racer's carbon and aluminium monocoque chassis was developed by Italian firm Dallara. The firm specialize in chassis construction for motorsports. The SRT_01E chassis fully complies with 2014 FIA safety regulations.
A few of the high profile names involved with Formula E is McLaren and Williams Group. To be exact, the services division of both companies, McLaren Electronic Systems and Williams Advanced Engineering respectively.
While Mclaren is the firm responsible for the supply of the electric motor, gearbox and electronics, Williams handles design and supply of batteries and battery management systems.
The batteries powering the single seaters can generate 200 kW (~270 BHP). But the batteries do not last a full race.
A total of 10 teams will be seen participating in Formula E. Since the batteries will not last through the hour long race each of the 20 drivers will swap their cars mid way. Thus, a total of 42 cars will be built.
The onus of supplying race tyres for the SRT_01E has fallen on Michelin, who is the official tyre partner. Interestingly, a custom treaded tyre measuring 18 inches will be the single tyre type used, for all track conditions.
Lastly, Formula E technical partner, Renault manages systems integration, performance optimization and powertrain electrical safety.
Peter van Manen, Managing Director of McLaren Electronic Systems, said: "These cars are going to be brilliant racing through the centres of cities. Electric motors deliver instant torque and acceleration and that is what McLaren is all about. Performance and efficiency. Our electric motor, developed originally for the McLaren P1, has the highest power-to-weight ratio in the world. McLaren is proud to provide the performance behind Formula E."
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