Formula E and the FIA have today confirmed that the championship will reduce the financial burden on its teams. Amid the global health crisis, Formula E will be lowering development costs. The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic has been putting a financial strain on all – sports notwithstanding.
As part of the plans to reduce costs, teams and manufacturers unanimously agreed to postpone the launch of the Gen2 EVO car. Its launch will now be delayed until the 2021-22 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. Providing, of course, that the world has returned to normal by then. This pandemic is, after all, unprecedented and therefore far from predictable.
Following a vote, the FIA World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) ratified the decision to extend the homologation period. With manufacturers only able to alter power-train components once over the next two seasons.
Teams now have two choices. They can either introduce a new car in season seven, for a two-year cycle. Or continue to use existing technology for the next season. Before homologating a new car the year after for a single season. Whichever choice is made, is going to be after much consideration. Like many aspects of motor racing, every decision is crucial. Seasons and championships hinge on every detail.
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After discussion with manufacturers, the changes to the technical regulations have been made. Taking into consideration with the long-term financial stability while keeping championship participants in mind.
Formula E and the FIA have taken a flexible and collaborative approach to decreasing spending. Hopefully, these ramifications and changes will see car development costs cut by half over the next two seasons.
In addition to supporting its immediate community, Formula E is committed to finding more ways to fight the global health crisis. It remains dedicated to providing help to others affected by the spread of coronavirus.
These are unprecedented times, the like of which has not been seen in a century. Not since the Spanish influenza of 1918. That outbreak lasted two years and its death toll was staggering. With any hope, we will not be revisiting those numbers.
Stay safe. Stay active. And above all else, stay home.
