Allan McNish: “Formula E must stay clear with its DNA”

Since its launch in 2014, la Formula E has taken a leading place in the concert of motorsport events. Proof of this is the ever-increasing involvement of brands, since after Renault, Audi or even DS, Porsche, BMW and Mercedes will be the next major reinforcements in the championship in the years to come.

Criticized by some, the discipline retains its specificity of 100% electric events in the city, with real progress which will be marked from the end of 2018 by the technological leap forward that will constitute the car Gen2, equipped with sufficiently advanced batteries to avoid changing cars mid-race, and which should offer improved on-track performance.

Another sign that electric is taking on an increasingly major role is the admission of Ross Brawn, Motor Sports director of Liberty Media, now at the head of the F1, on the fact that the premier category could one day switch to this technology if the desire and necessity were felt.

And if the former technical director of Ferrari believes that Formula E is still young, Allan McNish, Team Principal of Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler For his part, he believes that Formula E should not look towards F1 to develop.

“I did not immediately believe that the championship would reach the current level, admits the former Audi endurance driver. Mainly because I saw a lot of championships start and end in the first couple of years.

Formula E was able to gain much more momentum than expected. Now, Formula E must ensure that it stays clear with its DNA: that is, city racing, racing for fans, close competition, efficient electric powertrains.

At the same time, the series must evolve with the technology available and ensure it remains the exciting Formula E we have today. I don't think Formula E should compete with Formula 1. It should take its own path and follow it. »