Many people are not convinced by the FIA's electric single-seater racing series. However, Formula E has lessons to teach Formula 1 in some areas.
Modest but promising beginnings
Since its inception, I have never really followed Formula E. I can’t even name more than a few drivers, mostly from F1. Having spent the last decade watching F1, I stopped after a controversial refereeing decision during one of the best seasons. Since then, I have avoided F1, but my desire to race has remained. Moving to a city that hosts NASCAR Xfinity, Indycar and Formula E within 20 minutes of my home, I decided to immerse myself in these events, including Formula E.
The Portland E-Prix Show
I went to the Portland E-Prix, which could be the last stop for FE in the United States for years to come. Unlike other street races, this one takes place on a real circuit, making it easier to compare with traditional series.
Even if I got my ticket for free, it would have only cost $40. By comparison, attending an F1 Grand Prix costs hundreds of dollars, not to mention the high accommodation costs during the race weekend. FE offers better value with family activities, live music and free souvenirs, making the event more accessible for a family outing.
Notable differences with F1
On the track, the lack of exhaust noise allows for other race car sounds to be heard. Gear whine and aerodynamic noise are more noticeable, as are tire screeches and kerbs. This gives a more complete sense of what a driver feels like in a race.
FE cars do not produce fumes from unburned fuel, but a smell of heated electronic components. This extreme regeneration system also means that the smell of overheated brakes is virtually absent.
Innovation with “Attack Mode”
The “Attack Mode”, where drivers deviate from the racing line to gain extra power, seems like a gimmick at first glance. In reality, it is a complex strategy reminiscent of the joker lap in rallycross. It makes the races more dynamic and unpredictable.
A diverse and inclusive audience
FE has a more diverse crowd than other races. I’ve seen a greater presence of women and LGBTQ+ people, probably due to Portland Pride Month. It creates a more welcoming and less macho atmosphere, which is refreshing in the world of motorsports.
Impressive performance
FE cars, although limited to 400 horsepower, reach impressive speeds of up to 277 km/h. They rely more on mechanical grip than aerodynamics, making overtaking more frequent and racing incidents more frequent. Unlike F1, aerodynamic damage does not affect performance as much.
Criticisms and suggestions for improvement
However, FE has some areas that could be improved. The name “E-Prix” could be changed to “Street Racing” to better reflect the nature of these races. The constant, often outdated background music could be replaced with something more ambient. The lack of support races between sessions is another downer. Extending the length of the main race and amplifying the noise of the gears would also improve the experience.
Better merchandise choices and a better driver selection process (such as avoiding controversial ones) are also needed. Additionally, the FE should stop supporting controversial regimes, such as Saudi Arabia, as it hurts its image.
Would I return to a FE race?
Yes, probably, especially with someone who knows the series well. The appeal of any sport lies in the ability to follow the storylines that give meaning to the action on the track. FE, while not a replacement for series like Indycar or F1, offers an interesting alternative and is worth following.
Formula E isn’t perfect, but it brings new and sometimes better ideas than F1. By seeking to deliver a quality experience at a reasonable price, FE shows that it is possible to evolve motor racing while making it accessible and inclusive. It’s progress that F1 could emulate.
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