Formula E Co-Founder Reveals Exciting Plans for New Support Series

Formula E plans to reintroduce a support series by Season 14, targeting late 2027, with an all‑electric, affordable feeder conceived by co‑founder Alberto Longo to deepen race‑weekend content.

The move addresses the gap left since Jaguar I‑Pace eTrophy ended after Season 6 in 2020, when vehicle size and logistics limited appearances across street‑circuit venues.

Longo outlines a genuine feeder built around sustainability and access. Internal‑combustion options are ruled out. The aim is equal machinery that highlights ability rather than budgets.

Context matters. Formula 1’s ecosystem includes F2 and F3, while MotoGP runs Moto2 and Moto3. As the championship calendar evolves, fans expect fuller schedules and consistent track activity.

The shift to permanent venues such as Brands Hatch and Zandvoort underlines that demand. Spare track time, broadcast windows, and fan experience all benefit from a credible supporting category.

Cost control anchors the concept. Longo targets a single‑make electric car priced around €200,000 to €300,000, creating a ladder where drivers compete on merit and, crucially, are paid.

Equal equipment is central. Teams must run cars sustainably and cheaply, avoiding expensive development races. The category’s identity should be clear, authentic, and aligned with Formula E’s mission.

Delivery now moves into execution. Formula E plans about 50 partner meetings over the next year to secure suppliers, promoters, and funding, working toward a Season 14 debut.

Timing aligns with the second year of Gen4. A 2027 launch gives manufacturers and suppliers time to validate hardware and software, and to integrate with Formula E’s operational footprint. Read more on the Gen4 direction.

The NXT Gen Cup’s cancelled 2024 plan shows the pitfalls. Late‑stage financing, logistics, and homologation hurdles can derail projects unless responsibilities and risk are tightly managed.

Existing Gen2 and Gen3 cars are unsuitable on cost. Gen3’s efficiency and performance come with complex systems that inflate running budgets, undermining an affordable feeder model. Selecting a build partner carries technical and commercial risk, demanding clear governance.

Scheduling also matters. A support grid must fit broadcast windows, marshal coverage, and charging infrastructure. The Tokyo E‑Prix schedule illustrates how tight urban timetables can be.

For teams and manufacturers, a feeder can formalize talent pathways. Junior programs could align with factory or customer outfits, offering structured mileage and data relevant to Formula E.

If executed, the category strengthens weekends, creates visibility for prospects, and supports commercial growth. Longo remains optimistic that the concept can be delivered within the targeted window.

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Zane Muniz

Zane Muniz writes across NASCAR, IndyCar, F1, IMSA, NHRA, and dirt-racing news. His breaking-news alerts and event previews ensure motorsport fans never miss a lap, drift, or drag-strip showdown.