Ahead of the final two races of Season 9 in London, Formula E has showcased the impressive capabilities of its Gen3 electric race car, which was designated as “unlocked” for the occasion. The result was a groundbreaking achievement, as Formula E broke the indoor land speed world record, reaching a remarkable speed of 135.9 MPH (218.71 KPH) in a GenBeta development car. This feat took place on a .176-mile straight at the London E-Prix circuit, a section of which is located inside the ExCeL London arena. The talented NEOM McLaren Formula E driver, Jake Hughes, piloted the car during this record-breaking run, surpassing the previous record of 102.7 MPH (165.2 KPH) by an impressive margin of 33 MPH.
To set this record, Hughes engaged in a friendly competition with fellow driver Lucas di Grassi from Mahindra Racing. They followed a modified version of Formula E’s duels format, typically used for qualifying rounds. Both drivers managed to exceed the previous world record during their practice runs, and they continued to do so in their official attempts. Notably, neither Hughes nor di Grassi had any prior experience driving the GenBeta car before this exhibition.
The GenBeta car, a development version of the Gen3 car used in race events, boasts several upgrades that contribute to its outstanding performance. One significant improvement is the enhanced power output, now at 400kW, up from the 350kW in the regular race-trim Gen3 car. This extra power is achieved through an all-wheel-drive system, a first for a Formula E car, which activates the front powertrain kit to provide better traction during acceleration.
Alessandra Ciliberti, Formula E’s technical manager, explains that the GenBeta car represents a breakthrough in single-seater race car technology. It is the first time a four-wheel-drive system has been activated in a Formula E car, serving both for acceleration and braking regeneration. This advancement in technology demonstrates the potential for future Formula E racing.
The GenBeta car’s improved performance also comes from running on softer Hankook tires, which offer faster warm-up and better peak grip. During the record-breaking attempt, the vehicle was equipped with 3D-printed wing endplates, wheel fins, and a wind deflector to enhance aerodynamics and achieve peak straight-line speed. The drivers’ runs were analyzed using AI technology, with Google’s Vertex platform and McKinsey & Company’s QuantumBlack providing valuable telemetry data to fine-tune their strategy.
To officially set the record, the drivers needed to start from a standstill and come to a complete stop inside the convention center. This challenging task involved taking a 130-degree turn at approximately 25 MPH before accelerating to reach their top speeds along the straight. Speeds were measured 16.4 feet before the drivers reached the braking zone, which was the designated section of the circuit for them to stop and remain inside the building.
It’s worth noting that the regular Gen3 car is already a remarkable electric racer, boasting impressive capabilities such as a top speed of over 200 MPH and generating 40 percent of its power through braking during an E-Prix. However, the GenBeta car serves as an innovation platform, jointly developed by the racing series, the FIA, Sabic, and Hankook. Its purpose is to experiment with new materials and technologies, aiming to improve overall performance, efficiency, and sustainability in the world of Formula E racing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about GenBeta
What is the GenBeta car in Formula E?
The GenBeta car is a development version of the Gen3 electric race car used in Formula E events. It features various upgrades to enhance its performance and is considered an innovation platform for testing new materials and technologies.
How fast did the GenBeta car go in the indoor land speed world record attempt?
During the indoor land speed world record attempt, the GenBeta car reached a speed of 135.9 MPH (218.71 KPH) on a .176-mile straight section of the London E-Prix circuit inside the ExCeL London arena.
Who piloted the GenBeta car during the record-breaking run?
NEOM McLaren Formula E driver Jake Hughes piloted the GenBeta car during the indoor land speed world record attempt.
What upgrades were made to the GenBeta car for its improved performance?
The GenBeta car has an enhanced power output of 400kW (up from 350kW in the regular Gen3 car) with all-wheel drive activation for better traction during acceleration. It also utilized softer Hankook tires, 3D-printed aerodynamic components, and AI analysis to fine-tune strategy.
How does the GenBeta car represent a technological breakthrough?
The GenBeta car is the first single-seater race car to feature both four-wheel drive for acceleration and braking regeneration, showcasing new possibilities for the future of Formula E racing.
What was the previous indoor land speed world record, and how much did the GenBeta car surpass it?
The previous indoor land speed world record was 102.7 MPH (165.2 KPH). The GenBeta car surpassed this record by an impressive margin of 33 MPH.
What is the purpose of the GenBeta car in Formula E?
The GenBeta car serves as an innovation platform jointly developed by Formula E, the FIA, Sabic, and Hankook. It allows for experimentation with new materials and technologies to improve overall performance, efficiency, and sustainability in Formula E racing.
More about GenBeta
- Formula E Official Website: Formula E
- London E-Prix Circuit Information: London E-Prix Circuit
- NEOM McLaren Formula E Team: NEOM McLaren Formula E
- GenBeta Development Car Information: GenBeta Development Car
- Hankook Tires: Hankook Tires
- AI Analysis with Google’s Vertex: Google Vertex AI
- McKinsey & Company’s QuantumBlack: McKinsey & Company QuantumBlack
- Formula E’s Sustainability Initiatives: Formula E Sustainability
