Frankfurt: Spark-Renault SRT_01E Formula E Racecar a different kind of urban EV

[Haltech]

Filed under: 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show, Motorsports, Electric, Racing



The Spark-Renault SRT_01E looks like it'd be at home on any Formula One track in the world, but this is a car with a different destiny: the all-electric Formula E series. Unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show this week, the SRT_01E from Spark Racing Technology is a 200-kilowatt/270-horsepower monster EV for the 2014/2015 FIA Formula E Championship, which starts zero-emission racing in urban areas this September.

The SRT_01E's monocoque chassis is made from carbon fiber and aluminum by Dallara. The original plan was to make the car's shape create more exciting races, as it was "aerodynamically designed to aid overtaking," Formula E said in the press release announcing the car (available below). McLaren Electronics Systems is providing the electric motor, gearbox and electronics; the batteries and BMS come from Williams Advanced Engineering. Starting in Formula E's second season, the cars will have access to Qualcomm Halo wireless charging technology.

As we learned late last year, Formula E will buy 42 of these cars, giving each of the 20 drivers (on 10 teams) two cars to use during the one-hour races. If you like the look of the SRT_01E, pay attention this first year, as the open rules system of Formula E means that manufacturers can bring their own racecar to the 2015/2016 season. The SRT_01E may stick around after the inaugural season, but only if it proves to be the fastest EV for the courses. By the looks of the thing sitting on the show floor, we have to think it'll be tough to beat.Continue reading Spark-Renault SRT_01E Formula E Racecar a different kind of urban EV

Spark-Renault SRT_01E Formula E Racecar a different kind of urban EV originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Sep 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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