Formula E: Nissan newcomer Zane Maloney explains why overtaking could become more difficult with Gen4

Zane Maloney is beginning a new chapter in Formula E following his move to Nissan. The 23-year-old is impressed by the new Gen4 car but expects permanent all-wheel drive to bring changes to the racing. In particular, he believes overtaking could become more difficult. At the same time, he hopes to learn from former world champion Oliver Rowland at his new team.

Maloney scored just three championship points across his first two Formula E seasons with Lola Yamaha ABT. The Barbadian will now line up alongside former world champion Oliver Rowland at Nissan. His move also coincides with the introduction of Gen4, marking the biggest technical overhaul in the championship's history.

In an interview published by Nissan, Maloney discusses his first experiences with the Gen4 car. He is particularly impressed by the permanent all-wheel drive, increased power and active differential. However, he also expects the new technology to significantly change the way races unfold.

Maloney expects overtaking to become more difficult

"It's an exciting moment for the championship. We're confident that the new car will take Formula E to the next level. Nobody really knows what to expect yet, but my first laps in the Gen4 car were fantastic," explains the 23-year-old.

He also offered his thoughts on how racing could change with the new generation of cars: "We believe we'll still see some peloton-style races. However, overtaking could become more difficult because of the permanent all-wheel drive. Previously, Attack Mode offered a significant advantage by providing all-wheel drive. That advantage is likely to be reduced now."

The reason is a fundamental change to the drivetrain. While all-wheel drive was only available at the start of races and during Attack Mode with the Gen3 Evo, Gen4 cars feature permanently driven front and rear axles. This eliminates the traction advantage previously associated with Attack Mode.

However, drivers will still have access to significantly more power during Attack Mode, with output increasing from a maximum of 450 kW to as much as 600 kW. The extent to which these changes will affect overtaking and race strategies is unlikely to become clear until the first Gen4 races.

The new drivetrain concept could also force teams to rethink their strategies. Maloney expects engineers and drivers to develop new approaches as they adapt to the next generation of cars. "Strategically, teams will be forced to think more creatively. The first race will be a learning experience for everyone. That's why it's particularly important to be quick from the beginning and start the season with strong results."

Brands Hatch and Zandvoort: Maloney returns to circuits where he has enjoyed success

The new car is not the only challenge awaiting Maloney. Brands Hatch, Zandvoort and the Circuit of the Americas will also make their Formula E debuts in Season 13. The Nissan driver has particularly fond memories of two of these venues.

"We'll be racing at some fantastic circuits in Season 13, including a few where I have great memories. I won the British F4 title at Brands Hatch and took a victory in Formula 3 at Zandvoort. I really enjoy both circuits."

Nissan newcomer hopes to learn from world champion Oliver Rowland

Alongside adapting to Gen4, Maloney must also establish a strong working relationship with his new team. The 23-year-old wants to familiarise himself with Nissan's internal processes and prepare as thoroughly as possible for the season opener.

"My goals for the beginning of the season are to work well with the team and get familiar with everything before the first race. In terms of outright pace, I've always been competitive throughout my career. Now it's about understanding what the team needs from me and what I need from them. That can be difficult in Formula E. We need to focus on getting our processes right. The results will follow."

His new team-mate Oliver Rowland could play an important role in that process. The Briton won the drivers' championship in 2024/25 and has considerably more Formula E experience than Maloney.

"Having Oli as my team-mate is a fantastic opportunity. It'll be great to work with someone who has so much experience and became world champion not too long ago. I'll try to learn as much as I can from him," says Maloney.

According to Maloney, the partnership with Rowland is already going well. He particularly values the experienced Briton's contribution to the development of the new Gen4 car. "He's very straightforward with his feedback when it comes to developing the car, which is helpful for both me and the team. On the grid, he's one of the top drivers. Nissan is one of the strongest teams. I think we make a strong combination and can look forward to a successful season."