Porsche Unleashes Electrifying Power with Groundbreaking Gen4 Formula E Update!
In a bold move that promises to redefine the landscape of electric racing, Porsche has officially unveiled a jaw-dropping update to its Gen4 Formula E program, a development team principal Florian Modlinger boldly describes as “revolutionary.” This thrilling leap into the future of motorsport comes as Porsche solidifies its position as the third manufacturer to pledge allegiance to the next era of Formula E, a commitment they made back in May 2024.
The highly anticipated Gen4 will make its competitive debut at the start of the upcoming season, set to kick off in December this year. However, Porsche has been hard at work, already conducting private tests that showcase the immense potential of their electrified racing machine. The Gen4 made its presence known at the inaugural private manufacturers’ test last November in Monteblanco and again at a second session in Almeria just last month.
Porsche is not just sitting back; they are charging ahead with impressive advancements. The German powerhouse is ramping up its in-house developments, now crafting even more critical components. From the operating software to the electric motor, gearbox, and drivetrain parts, the list of in-house innovations is extensive. With Gen4, Porsche is also set to engineer the DC/DC converter and a cutting-edge brake-by-wire system, marking a significant leap in their technological capabilities.
The performance specs are staggering. While the current Formula E Gen3 Evo churns out an impressive 350 kW (that’s over 470 horsepower), the Gen4 is set to explode onto the scene with a mind-boggling 600 kW—an awe-inspiring 815 horsepower! “With the current car, the efficiency of our drivetrain is over 97 %,” Modlinger states, emphasizing the near-perfect energy usage from battery to wheel. “From the battery to the wheel, less than 3 % of the energy used is lost—close to perfection and a key advantage of electric drive.”
As the development team hones in on this powerhouse, Modlinger highlights that their focus extends beyond just raw power. They are also prioritizing weight, durability, and cost—elements crucial for the electric vehicles of tomorrow. “600 kW represents a 71 % increase in power in Attack Mode. Overall, I believe it is fair to speak of a revolution,” he declares, expressing his excitement for what’s to come.
Porsche’s drivers, including the reigning Season 10 world champion Pascal Wehrlein, are equally exhilarated by the advancements. After testing the Gen4 for the first time in Almeria, Wehrlein couldn’t contain his enthusiasm: “It is really fast and great fun to drive. Thanks to the new aerodynamics, we are significantly quicker, especially through the faster corners. They generate noticeable downforce.” He noted that the efficiency improvements allow the team to embrace the additional drag, declaring that Gen4 will undoubtedly “be a real eye-opener for many people out there.”
Teammate Nico Müller also chimed in, emphasizing that the Gen4 is a “real beast” with unprecedented power and traction, attributing its capabilities to the permanent all-wheel drive. Müller predicts a seismic shift in racing dynamics, with the potential to feel more akin to supercars in rallycross. He expressed eagerness for the next phase of testing, despite the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming sporting regulations.
As Porsche accelerates its Gen4 project, the excitement is palpable. With 1,472 kilometers already logged across private tests, the team’s commitment to excellence is clear. As they inch closer to the pre-season testing expected in October, the racing world watches with bated breath. Will Porsche’s Gen4 redefine what we know about electric racing? One thing is certain: the future of Formula E is about to get a whole lot more thrilling!
