Current E can exclusively reveal that Venturi is already part-way through its track testing schedule with its second generation powertrain.

The Monaco-based manufacturer has been running its test car at an undisclosed track in southern France since Wednesday last week, with experienced driver Nicolas Minassian at the wheel.

Initial reports indicate that the new powertrain (which is built by Hewland to a design and specification laid down by the Venturi technical team) is performing better than expected, with significant gains made in thermal management. We’re not able to reveal further details about the motor or transmission.

The team has a full five-day test session planned for this week, with different parameters being examined in a staged, progressive programme. The team joins ABT, NextEV TCR, Mahindra and Virgin in getting on track with new tech.

After the bitter disappointment of losing out on podiums in both the first and last races of the 2014-15 season, Venturi will be hoping to turn its fortunes around and build some positive momentum through this summer’s preseason testing. The outfit will also be shooting for a new land speed world record in the summer with its VBB3 programme.