Formula E, the end of the beginning

A short message for the future of Formula E.

Season four of Formula E was not only exciting for the action, but for what it represents. It represents the end of the beginning, a new era of motorsport, and an entire cultural shift towards sustainable transportation.

The end of the beginning refers merely to the use of Gen2 cars for next season. This is a season that will likely draw more attention to the series than ever before. More high profile drivers, faster cars, and different tracks combine to create a high level of anticipation. It will be exciting, but we need to remember how far the series has come in four short years.

It has become a beacon of hope for many electric-car fanatics and has earned a spot among the ranks of excellent motorsport series’. Since its inception, more and more electric series have begun to form. This is in no doubt due to Formula E paving the way for other passionate visionaries.

On-track action is always necessary, and can arguably be the most important thing regarding motorsport, but the external impact a series has can be equally significant. It’s no secret that Formula 1 inspires the drivers of tomorrow, but does Formula E now have the same impact? I believe it does.

With such a young fan-base, Formula E could be all they know. No expectations of a screaming engine and massive tracks in the middle of nowhere will influence how these young kids feel about the series. You can argue that young kids watch both Formula 1 and Formula E, but there is a small niche that solely watches Formula E.

From this niche, you never know if it contains a future champion that has only driven an electric race-car. The past has been bright, but what the future holds is optimism and growth. We are beginning a new era, and we are lucky enough to be spearheading the future of electric motorsport.

Jean-Eric Vergne celebrating his season four championship — (Image: Formula E)

By: Andrew Miles