Formula E confirms new four-wheel drive car

Formula E and the FIA have officially unveiled the GEN4, the most powerful and advanced all-electric single-seater in the championship's history. The new car will debut in the 2026/27 season with 600kW of power available, equivalent to over 815 horsepower, and includes active all-wheel drive in all race phases.

The development of the GEN4 represents a considerable technical advance over the current GEN3, which generates up to 350kW (470 hp) in qualifying mode. The new generation increases race power to 450kW and reaches 600kW in ATTACK mode, setting a new performance standard for electric racing.

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Adaptable Aerodynamic Configurations by Session Type

The GEN4 incorporates two distinct aerodynamic configurations: a high-downforce setup optimized for qualifying and a low-downforce design specifically for race conditions. This technical capability aims to maximize on-track performance according to the specific needs of each session.

The regeneration capacity reaches 700kW, while the race energy capacity extends to 55kWh, allowing for riskier strategies during races. These figures contrast with the current GEN3, which manages a maximum combined regeneration of 600kW between the front and rear axles.

Fully Recyclable Construction with Reused Content

The new single-seater uses 100% recyclable materials with at least 20% recycled content in its construction. This approach aims to set a new benchmark for environmental responsibility within global motorsport.

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Jeff Dodds, CEO of Formula E, explained that "the GEN4 represents more than a decade of progress, innovation, and ambition in electric racing. Co-developed with the FIA, it is the most advanced, demanding, and sustainable machine we have built."

Five Manufacturers to Develop Specific Versions

The manufacturers registered for the GEN4 include Porsche, Nissan, Stellantis, Jaguar, and Lola Cars, who will implement their in-house technologies in propulsion systems and energy management. Each team will calibrate the vehicle's performance capabilities before the debut in the 2026/27 season.

Marek Nawarecki, FIA Senior Director of Circuit Sport, highlighted that "this new technical structure will allow manufacturers to incorporate and showcase their technologies relevant to road cars more than ever before. Also, the technical framework supplied by the FIA together with Formula E will allow OEMs to incorporate and showcase their own road-relevant technologies more than before."

The technical development of the GEN4 includes an active differential and permanent all-wheel drive, features that Alberto Longo, Co-Founder and Chief Championship Officer of Formula E, describes as "designed for wheel-to-wheel battles and pure racing action."

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Evolution from the Championship's Beginnings

A comparison between generations reveals the accelerated technological advancement of Formula E. The original GEN1 weighed 880 kg with the driver and required a car change mid-race due to battery limitations. The GEN2 eliminated this need with 385 kg batteries that doubled the energy capacity.

The leap from GEN3 to GEN4 constitutes the largest power increase in the championship's history, with 71% more horsepower available in ATTACK mode compared to current qualifying power. The permanent all-wheel drive of the GEN4 contrasts with the rear-wheel drive exclusive to all previous generations.

Vincent Gaillardot, FIA Formula E Technical Manager, specified that "with over 815 horsepower available in Attack mode, permanent all-wheel drive, improved aerodynamics, and greater grip from larger tires, the GEN4 positions itself at the upper end of the FIA's single-seater pyramid."

The participating manufacturers will continue joint development with two combined tests scheduled before the official debut of the GEN4 in the 13th season of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship 2026/27.