Ma Qing Hua replaces Filippi for Paris Formula E

NIO Formula E squad has rotated reserve driver Ma Qing Hua in to replace Luca Filippi for the next round, the Paris ePrix, after a run of disappointing results.

The Chinese team named Ma Qing Hua as reserve driver last November during the build-up to the 2017/18 Formula E championship season opener in Hong Kong having already signed Oliver Turvey and Filippi as its full-time drivers.

Italian Filippi scored his only top ten finish of the season in the opening race but since then has struggled to make his mark in Formula E. As a result, the team’s reserve driver will step for the Paris race while the team will wait to confirm its driver line-up for the final three rounds.

Ma Qing Hua made his Formula E debut for Team Aguri at the 2016 Paris ePrix before switching to Techeetah for the opening three races of the 2016-17 season until he was dropped by the team.

The former HRT and Caterham Formula 1 test driver is relishing his new opportunity and hopes to meet expectations for NIO in Paris.

“First of all, I am really happy and honoured to be back in the cockpit racing for NIO Formula E Team,” Qing Hua said. “Thank you to NIO for this opportunity.

“I am really looking forward to racing again, against some of the top drivers in the world. I will do my best to achieve the best result I can and I will see you all in Paris.”

Gerry Hughes, NIO Formula E Team Principal, has welcomed the Chinese driver ahead of his switch to the race seat and has faith the 30-year-old will impress in Paris.

“The NIO Formula E Team is very happy to give Ma Qing Hua the opportunity to drive the NIO 003 at the Paris E-Prix,” Hughes said. “We look forward to welcoming him back in to the Paddock at the forthcoming event.”