DS Automobiles has pledged commitment to Formula E’s Gen3 era from Season 9 onwards, becoming the second manufacturer on the current grid to do so.
The French marque has been present on the Formula E grid since Season 2 and has worked in partnership with the Chinese Techeetah team since Season 5 after previously working with Virgin Racing from 2015-2018.
In partnership with DS Automobiles, DS Techeetah has emerged as the dominant force in Formula E’s Gen2 era and holds two consecutive Drivers’ and Teams’ championship titles, seven victories and 15 podiums.
DS Automobiles is also the only manufacturer in the fully-electric single-seater series to produce two different Drivers’ champions in Jean-Eric Vergne and Antonio Felix da Costa.
By remaining in Formula E and committing to a long-term future in the championship, DS Automobiles will continue to promote its electrification strategy while benefitting from the transfer of race-to-road technology in its hybrid and electric vehicles.
“DS Automobiles was one of the first manufacturers to join Formula E when teams began developing the powertrains of their racing cars and it is inspiring to see the extensive fleet of electric vehicles they have introduced to the streets since,” said Formula E CEO Jamie Reigle.
“I am delighted that Formula E’s only back-to-back double champions have secured a place on the grid for Season 9 as it reaffirms Formula E’s position as a technology proving ground and marketing platform for the world’s leading automotive manufacturers.
“We look forward to breaking new ground during the next phase of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship with DS Automobiles.”
Formula E’s Gen3 era will see improved performance and efficiency, with cars not only being lighter and faster but also featuring fast charging capabilities all within cost controls. Only DS Automobiles and Mahindra have committed to this set of rules so far.
“Electrification is at the core of DS Automobiles’ global strategy,” said Béatrice Foucher, DS Automobiles Director General. “We have been the first premium car maker to enter Formula E and our brand has significantly benefitted from the work and the successes of DS Performance, both in terms of development and brand awareness.
“If today DS Automobiles is the multienergy constructor with the lowest average of CO2 emissions in Europe, it is also thanks to the expertise acquired in Formula E.
“Extending our commitment to 2026 will offer us new opportunities to continue our development work!”
After a delayed start to the new season as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, Formula E’s 2020/21 campaign will commence on February 26 and 27 with a double-header event in Diriyah – the championship’s first night race.
