The Engineering Behind Formula E - How It Works

The Engineering Behind Formula E - How It Works. How does a Formula E car work? We’ll be breaking down the science and strategy behind the battery, the motor, the transmission, the tires, the aerodynamics, the suspension, the brakes and regen, the cooling system, and of course the very unique aspect of the sport of having two cars per driver, swapped mid race.

The 170 kW (approximately 230 HP) electric motor used in season 1 of Formula E was developed originally for the McLaren P1 supercar, and at its development it had the greatest power density of any automotive electric motor in the world, with 8 kW per kg. The regulations are now open, so teams can use more than one motor if they’d like, and develop the motors themselves. While the power output can never exceed 170 kW during a race, you can alter the efficiency of the motor, meaning you’ll be able to run flat out longer than other teams if your motor is more efficient. With the weight of the car, including the driver, at just 900 kg (or under 2000 lbs), the cars can hit 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds.

Big Thanks to Formula E for having me out to the event and sponsoring this video, and thanks to my network partner GarageMonkey for helping arrange this opportunity!