Following in the footsteps of Audi’s announcement earlier this month, Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that it will be competing in the all-electric Formula E series from 2019 onwards.
Mercedes-Benz joins a growing list of notable manufacturers taking part in the sport, such as Renault, BMW, Jaguar, and Citroen DS. The rise in popularity of Formula E among car manufacturers goes to show just how much stock is being put in electric vehicles as the future of the automotive industry. One of the appeals of the series is the way in which it gives manufacturers the opportunity to test out their new innovations.
“Formula E is like an exciting start-up venture: it offers a brand new format, combining racing with a strong event character, in order to promote current and future technologies,” explained the head of the Mercedes-Benz motorsports division, Toto Wolff, in a statement. “Electrification is happening in the road car world and Formula E offers manufacturers an interesting platform to bring this technology to a new audience – and to do so with a completely new kind of racing, different to any other series.”
Departing from the DTM
The move to Formula E is accompanied by Mercedes’ departure from the DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters), a series that it has competed in with great success since 1998. While there is no doubt DTM will be sad to see the departure of Mercedes, there is high anticipation in the Formula E camp about their arrival. Formula E Founder and CEO Alejandro Agag said, “Today is a great day as we welcome Mercedes to the Formula E family — adding to the increasing number of manufacturers joining the electric revolution. This step shows how much the world is changing, not only in motorsport, but the whole automotive industry.”
With such high interest in Formula E right now and with such big names taking part, it looks set to keep growing into one of the most exciting motorsport arenas of the moment.
If you’re new to Formula E and want to find out what’s in store, the next race takes place in Montreal on Saturday, July 29. Ahead of the race, the next leg of the DLV FIA Global Startup Contest will be taking place. For more info on Formula E and all future race dates, visit the official website.
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