New "Formulino E" car aims for Formula E support series
A new single-seater electric car that aims to become a support series to Formula E or Electric GT has been unveiled this week. Based on a modified Formula 3 car, the new racer is still at the prototype stage, but has already had a shakedown session at the Zolder circuit in Belgium.
The design of the "Formulino E" currently features a 15kWh battery, which would provide far less range than a Formula E car, even at lower speeds. However, there is potential to allow rapid battery swapping, which could allow a single car to complete the full race distance. It's also about a third lighter, at around 550kg (without the driver). The car's top speed is in excess of 190km/h.
The chassis is provided by Italian supplier Dallara, and with the powertrain developed by the Belgium-based company, Punch.
The project has been developed to date without the involvement of the FIA or Formula E. However, as electric motorsport continues to grow, Formulino's backers believe there will be a market for the car -- from smaller teams, racing schools and, it is hoped, new support series.
Thierry Deflandre, the chairman of the Formulino consortium, told Motorsport.com they are in negotiations to hold the first race this year.
The design of the "Formulino E" currently features a 15kWh battery, which would provide far less range than a Formula E car, even at lower speeds. However, there is potential to allow rapid battery swapping, which could allow a single car to complete the full race distance. It's also about a third lighter, at around 550kg (without the driver). The car's top speed is in excess of 190km/h.
The chassis is provided by Italian supplier Dallara, and with the powertrain developed by the Belgium-based company, Punch.
The project has been developed to date without the involvement of the FIA or Formula E. However, as electric motorsport continues to grow, Formulino's backers believe there will be a market for the car -- from smaller teams, racing schools and, it is hoped, new support series.
Thierry Deflandre, the chairman of the Formulino consortium, told Motorsport.com they are in negotiations to hold the first race this year.
