New Formula E race format approved by WMSC

The World Motor Sport Council has ratified Formula E's proposed race format changes for Season 5 when it will introduce a two-power mode for drivers in races using the new 'Gen2' car.

Formula E unveiled its futuristic-looking Gen2 car at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year, with the new powertrain offering double the battery life that will remove the need for in-race car swaps, as has been the case through the first four seasons of the championship.

Formula E confirmed back in March it would be looking to introduce two power modes for drivers from Season 5, allowing them to sacrifice available energy in order to run in a quicker power mode that would offer an advantage of around one second per lap.

The change was approved by the World Motor Sport Council following its latest meeting in Manila earlier this week, as confirmed by the FIA on Thursday when the full calendar for Season 5 was also announced.

"The details of the two levels of power that must be used during each race are now defined, with 200 kW available in normal mode and 225 kW in the higher power mode," a statement from the FIA reads.

"The higher power mode will be activated when a driver passes through an activation zone, which will be visible on the circuit and on television. The number of activations and the duration of the use of the higher power mode will be determined at each race by the FIA, according to the individual features of the circuit.

"Fanboost will only be available for deployment in high power mode, with a maximum additional energy of 100 kJ and power output of 250 kW."

The FIA also confirmed the planned switch from distance to a timed format in Formula E, with races from Season 5 set to last 45 minutes plus one lap.

"The ABB FIA Formula E Championship has always produced highly-competitive and unpredictable racing," Formula E CEO Alejandro Agag said.

"Formula E is synonymous with innovation and pioneering technology - that’s exactly what we’ll be seeing again next season with the step-up in performance and efficiency of the futuristic next generation car, as well as trialling unique and radical concepts to usher in a new era of Formula E.

"The new format and split levels of power being introduced for season five will add an extra strategic element and continue to offer intense and exciting competition between some of the most talented drivers and biggest brands in motorsport.

"I’m looking forward to seeing the new cars and format in action against the backdrop of iconic city skylines - starting in Ad Diriyah in December.”