After a very positive introduction to the all-electric series at Battersea earlier this year, I was delighted to make my way up to a rather grey Donington Park to cover the final day of winter testing for Formula E. As the series moves in to its second season, the appearance of the cars on test is exactly the same as seen in season one; it’s beneath the skin that things are different. Formula E was essentially a ‘stock’ series in its inaugural year but now, for the first time teams have the option to develop their own powertrain solutions via changes to the e-motor, inverter, gearbox and cooling system. So, as if the 6 days of pre-season testing around Donington park weren’t vital enough, the new rule changes placed substantial pressure on the teams to iron out the creases in their own designs before the first round in Beijing.
The British weather didn’t disappoint, with an overcast day first turning damp, then positively soggy. As unpleasant as shooting in the pouring rain is; single seaters always look mighty in the rain; exposed wheels hurling the water on track back towards the sky in great rooster tales. A special mention must go to the empty marshals post on the Melbourne loop, more specifically it’s gloriously sheltering roof!
I look forward to following Formula E as the new season progresses.