Formula E postpones Gen2 Evo car introduction

Formula E has delayed the launch of the Gen2 Evo car until the 2021-2022 ABB FIA Formula E season as part of major cost-cutting measures amid the coronavirus crisis.

All teams, Formula E organisers and the FIA agreed unanimously to put in place cost saving steps to protect teams and the sport, with the first key move seeing the next generation of Formula E cars held back until 2021-2022.

Manufacturers will now only be able to upgrade powertrains once over the next two seasons, meaning teams could introduce a new car for next season for a two-year cycle or keep its current specification and run a new car for one season the year after. The FIA says the measures taken should cut costs in half over the next two seasons with the Gen2 Evo cars delayed by one season.

The FIA and Formula E are also assessing more ways to help in the fight against the coronavirus.

“In these difficult times, adapting the cost structures in motorsport is a priority to ensure its sustainability,” Jean Todt, FIA President, said. “I encouraged the decisions regarding FIA Formula E Championship approved by the World Motor Sport Council in this regard, which are in line with the discussions currently underway for the other FIA disciplines.”

“During these challenging times, we have taken a flexible approach. Not only with the quick and sensible decision to temporarily suspend the season, but now by implementing cost measures to lower development costs for the teams,” Alejandro Agag, Founder and Chairman of Formula E, added.

The 2019-2020 Formula E season has been suspended until at least mid-June with the next provisionally scheduled round the Berlin E-Prix on June 21, but organisers are preparing to reshuffle the remainder of the season when the coronavirus crisis eases.