How will Formula E's new 'Attack Mode' format work?

The ABB FIA Formula E Championship has confirmed details for the new ‘Attack Mode’ format that will be used in races through the 2018/19 season, starting in Saudi Arabia later this month.

After scrapping the car swaps that have been used through the first four seasons following the introduction of new batteries that will last an entire race, Formula E confirmed a revised race format that would see drivers have access to two power modes.

The FIA confirmed back in June that cars would be able to run at 225 kW when in the higher-power mode, compared to 200 kW in the regular mode.

Formula E made further details about the new format clear on Monday, calling the additional power boost ‘Attack Mode’.

Drivers will be able to use Attack Mode from Lap 2 of each race, temporarily boosting power levels up to 225 kW. All drivers are required to use it for a pre-defined period of time in each race.

However, in order to trigger Attack Mode, drivers must pass through three timing sensors in a defined activation zone that is off the racing line, putting them at risk of losing time or even a position.

Formula E will use virtual reality technology to allow fans to follow Attack Mode usage, which will also be notified via the LED lights on the Halo cockpit protection on the new Gen2 cars.

“For someone who’s been with the series since pretty much the start, I’ve personally seen how Formula E has taken big strides - not only with the performance of the car, but by implementing new ideas that continue to promote close racing such as Attack Mode,” Season 4 Formula E champion Jean-Eric Vergne said.

“As drivers, we want to be able to race hard and the fans want that too. We had a small taster of Attack Mode during the pre-season test in Valencia, but it’s hard to say what it’ll be like when we go racing from the simulations we did then. I think we’re all very curious to find out and it’s not long to go now until Ad Diriyah.

“I think the biggest question around Attack Mode will be when to use it and when to conserve energy in comparison to who’s around you on track. It’s a guessing game and it’s going to lead to some exciting and unpredictable results.”

Formula E CEO Alejandro Agag added: “Formula E broke the mould by being the first to go electric - so it’s clear we aren’t scared of trying new things. Whether that’s introducing new on-track innovations or tweaking the format of the race, or creating new ways for fans to follow or interact with the sport.

“I’m eager to see the competitive debut of the Gen2 car and Attack Mode in action during a race scenario on the tight and challenging street circuits that’ve come to define our series. I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time and this is the year where the ABB FIA Formula E Championship comes of age."