Legacy car manufacturers gain insights into electric vehicle technology through Formula E

Legacy automakers, such as Tata Motors unit Jaguar Land Rover and Nissan, are looking to their Formula E electric racing teams for innovative advancements to improve the development of mass-production EVs. By optimizing power and energy regeneration through braking, these automakers are able to create more efficient high-performance motors and inverters that will enhance overall performance and range. Furthermore, advanced technology utilized in Formula E cars, such as Tata Motors’ use of silicon carbide inverter technology, has the potential to significantly increase the efficiency of premium-model EVs on the market.

As the automotive industry continues to move toward electric vehicles, the transfer of technology from Formula E to mass-market models is becoming increasingly important. For example, taking insights from managing battery temperatures, Jaguar Land Rover has improved the range of its I-Pace EVs via over-the-air updates. This demonstrates the tangible impact that Formula E innovation can have on the advancement of electric vehicles.

Some automakers, like Porsche, are not only using technology developed through their Formula E teams for their luxury EVs, but are also integrating the expertise of Formula E engineers into their road models, illustrating the significant role that motorsport engineering talent can play in the development of electric vehicles.

Conversely, BMW and Mercedes have shifted their focus away from Formula E and toward leveraging their Formula 1 teams to design more efficient EVs. This demonstrates the different approaches taken by automakers in utilizing motorsports as an avenue for EV development.

Furthermore, Stellantis is utilizing findings from its DS brand Formula E team to expedite EV development across all of its brands. This fast-paced technology transfer highlights the potential for rapid advancements in the electric vehicle revolution. By leveraging technological advancements from Formula E, legacy automakers have the opportunity to accelerate the development of mass-production EVs with improved range, efficiency, and affordability. Through the integration of Formula E innovations, automakers are positioning themselves at the forefront of the electric revolution in the automotive industry.