A female racing driver achieved a significant milestone in an FIA Formula E car, just in time for International Women’s Day. Reem Al Aboud managed to reach 0-60 in 2.49 seconds, surpassing the previous record of 2.60 seconds. This achievement solidifies Formula E’s position as the fastest accelerating sport both on and off the track, while highlighting its dedication to promoting gender equality in motorsport. This accomplishment not only marks a milestone in Al Aboud’s career, but also strengthens her bond with Formula E, as she was the first and youngest Saudi driver to drive an FE car five years ago.
Formula E expressed its support for Al Aboud and empowerment by involving young Saudi women from local schools to share messages of inspiration for her. These messages were captured in the car’s design, creating an atmosphere of motivation and encouragement. This initiative coincided with the expansion of the FIA Girls on Track program, a comprehensive female empowerment initiative focusing on careers and education in motorsport. This further demonstrates Formula E’s commitment to encouraging young women to pursue their dreams in the world of motorsport.
The car used for this achievement, known as the GENBETA car, is described by Formula E as an “unlocked” version of the current GEN3 car. It has 400 kW of power and features enhancements from partners like Hankook Tire, SABIC, ABB, and Google Cloud. Al Aboud expressed her joy in being part of this innovative moment, emphasizing that it’s not just about speed, but also about breaking barriers and showcasing the immense potential of women in motorsport. She believes that Formula E has provided her with a platform to make a statement and feels honored to be part of this journey towards gender equality in racing.
The CEO of Formula E, Jeff Dodds, praised Reem’s achievement, stating that it is a testament to the core values of Formula E: innovation, equality, and competition. He sees her success not only as a triumph for Formula E, but also as a significant step towards inclusion in racing. Dodds and the entire Formula E community join Al Aboud in celebrating this milestone, especially as it coincides with the upcoming International Women’s Day.
