Hong Kong will welcome back the Formula E event at the Central Harbourfront in March, where new-generation electric cars will take to the track. However, tickets will be pricier than last year.

Twenty-two drivers from 11 teams will go up against each other on the 1.86 kilometer track, which consists of 10 turns with two hairpins on March 10, 2019.

The Hong Kong leg will be the fifth race of the 2018/19 ABB FIA Formula E Championship.

The grandstand will be located near the Observation Wheel and Tamar Park, but tickets will cost HK$2,880, an increase of HK$500 from last year.

Instead of allowing free access to the Allianz E-Village, where a live broadcast of the race will be shown, the organizer is charging HK$50.

Second generation electric race cars will debut in the third edition of the race in the city.

The new model boasts a distinctive futuristic design and doubles the energy storage capacity, which allows teams and drivers to complete a full race at higher speeds without needing to swap cars midway.

The cars also demonstrate ongoing advancements in battery and electric vehicle technology.

"With the introduction of the Gen 2 car, Season Five of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship is the most eagerly anticipated yet. As a driver that has been involved in the series from the start, it is great to see our sport continue to grow, and to see the increasing impact its technology and innovation is having on the future of electric vehicles," said Panasonic Jaguar Racing reserve and test driver Tung Ho-pin.

There is a FANBOOST function allowing fans to vote for drivers to receive an extra boost of 100 kilojoules of energy during the race. There is also the new 'Attack Mode,' which is another on-track innovation.

During Attack Mode, drivers can activate special zones on the track in order to access 225 kilowatt power. Spectators will be able to identify which drivers are in the mode through illumination of LED Halos on the vehicles.

Due to the expansion of the E-Village, the Lung Wo Road grandstand space will be reduced to allow for more activities, food and beverage and live performances on race day.

In the E-Village, there will be a new Formula E World exhibition which demonstrates the advances in battery and electric motor technology. A Kids Zone will be set up to educate youngsters through immersive experiences.

cissy.so@singtaonewscorp.com