FIA Formula E is to debut its very own all-electric junior touring car series at its European rounds this season.
In a statement on its official website, FE has described the NXT Gen Cup “the world’s first 100% electric junior touring car series with both male and female drivers” and will feature, subject to FIA approval, at the European venues in Misano, Monaco, Berlin and London, as well as at two rounds of the German DTM series at the Norisring and Hockenheim.
Formula E say the objective of the series – open to drivers aged 15-25 – is “to educate them and develop their talents in order to build a successful racing career.”
The series will feature 20 180bhp cars – all built by the Swedish Lestrup Racing Team – based on the electric MINI Cooper SE road vehicle, and will boast a “push-to-pass” feature that will give the cars an extra 60bhp when activated.
The format of the events will consist of two 20 minute practice sessions [except for Monaco where just one will take place], a 20 minute qualifying session and a 20 minute race.
Alberto Longo, the Co-Founder of Formula E, said: “We are delighted to welcome the NXT Gen Cup after their hugely successful debut last year.
“The addition of an all-electric junior category to the European part of our calendar will further contribute to the essential nurturing of young talent, a key part to our sport and give them the opportunity to race on the same stage as our world-class drivers and teams.”
Enthusiasm was shared by the founder the NXT Gen Cup, Frederik Lestrup. “For NXT Gen Cup to go from an idea on paper less than two years ago to racing together with the ABB FIA Formula E and DTM this year is mind-boggling and an inspiring proof on the hard work by everyone involved,” said Lestrup.
“We have together with Formula E and DTM created a spectacular calendar which will provide our junior drivers with a robust foundation to start their racing careers and show their talents to some of the best teams and partners in the world.
“I want to extend a huge thanks to everyone who has made this possible and we are thoroughly motivated to start our most exciting season so far!”
2024 NXT Gen Cup Calendar
- 13-14 April – Misano – Italy – ABB FIA Formula E World Championship
- 27 April – Monaco – ABB FIA Formula E World Championship
- 11-12 May – Berlin – Germany – ABB FIA Formula E World Championship
- 05–07 July – Norisring – Germany – DTM
- 20-21 July – London – Great Britain – ABB FIA Formula E World Championship
- 18-20 October – Hockenheim – Germany – DTM
